Blood transfusion services in Nepal: An overview

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine

Background:

• Blood transfusion services (BTSs) in Nepal are primarily managed by the Nepal Red Cross Society (NRCS) and hospital laboratories.
• The NRCS handles approximately 90% of the nation's blood transfusion services, operating numerous blood service units and centers.
• Increasing demand for blood components is driven by the expansion of healthcare facilities across Nepal.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the current state of blood transfusion services in Nepal.
• To identify challenges and gaps in national blood transfusion policies and guidelines.
• To understand the operational scope and contributions of the NRCS in blood collection and component supply.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and operational data on blood transfusion services in Nepal.
• Analysis of the roles and responsibilities of key organizations involved in BTS.
• Examination of national guidelines and policies related to blood transfusion and safety.

Main Results:

• In 2023, NRCS Central BTSs collected 262,439 units of whole blood and supplied 344,933 blood components.
• Nepal faces a deficit in comprehensive blood transfusion policies, with existing guidelines lacking specific protocols for safe component administration.
• Regulatory oversight for BTS licensing is fragmented, involving the National Public Health Laboratory and Ministry of Health, with limited association with drug control authorities.

Conclusions:

• Nepal's blood transfusion services are largely dependent on the NRCS, facing challenges due to evolving healthcare demands.
• There is a critical need for updated national guidelines and policies to ensure safe and effective blood component administration.
• Strengthening regulatory frameworks and inter-agency collaboration is essential for enhancing blood safety and service delivery.