Understanding non-return after a temporary deferral from giving blood: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Understanding donor return after temporary deferral is crucial for maintaining blood supply.
• Previous research has not fully elucidated the reasons behind reduced future return rates following deferral.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the underlying reasons for decreased blood donor return after temporary deferral.
• To explore donor motivations, deferral experiences, and intentions to donate again.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews with 23 blood donors post-deferral.
• The Framework approach was used for data analysis to identify themes related to return behavior.
• Donation records were used to ascertain prompt return.

Main Results:

• Donors are motivated by ease, convenience, altruism, self-concept enhancement, and health knowledge.
• Deferral disrupts donation habits and introduces practical/emotional inconvenience.
• Return is influenced by personal obligations, support systems, donor identity, and feeling valued.

Conclusions:

• Enhancing the deferral process to make donors feel valued is essential.
• Maintaining donation convenience, particularly for donors with competing obligations, is critical for retention.