[Transfusion safety, time for a new partnership between stake-holders]

Area of Science:

• Transfusion Medicine
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Heightened publicity regarding contaminated blood products has led to increased controls throughout the transfusion process.
• A quality control program has been implemented, significantly reducing transfusion-related adverse events.
• Hemovigilance is crucial for identifying risks associated with bedside transfusion processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for a new partnership between stakeholders in transfusion safety.
• To address the need for a coherent national transfusion policy and investment plan.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a quality control program for transfusion products.
• Application of safety measures and hemovigilance in healthcare institutions.
• Discussion of resource allocation for transfusion product control.

Main Results:

• Substantial reduction in adverse events due to implemented quality control.
• Mandatory application of quality controls and hemovigilance by regulatory bodies (Swissmedic).

Conclusions:

• Existing quality control programs have improved transfusion safety.
• A collaborative approach between national health authorities and local services is essential for strategic transfusion policy and resource planning.