[The number of cell separators existing in France in 2003]

The "2002 Apheresis" Group was commissioned by the President of the Etablissement français du sang to carry out a study on the national stock of automated apheresis devices and think about a method to harmonize techniques. The objective was twofold: to facilitate the initiation of public procurement procedures as well as to streamline the stock and to match practices. The members of the "2002 Apheresis" group first carried out an inquiry based on a nationwide questionnaire. They analyzed and compared the performances of the various separators. They also consulted suppliers on their short-term (2 years) projects. They finally met all regional apheresis correspondents. The group was then able to make suggestions to organize this activity as a part of a national apheresis scheme. Lastly, they helped devising public procurement procedures for the coming two years. This group is going to obtain a long-term recognition with the creation of a "Collection Group" conducted by the Scientific and Medical directors board at the Etablissement français du sang.