Changes in intention to donate blood under a hypothetical condition of reduced confidentiality

Lawsuits related to transfusion-associated human immunodeficiency virus infections have increasingly resulted in requests for the release of confidential information about volunteer blood donors. Concern that loss of confidentiality might change blood donor behavior led to a survey of donors at collection sites within an American Red Cross Blood Services Region. Of the 361 respondents, 50.3 percent (181) indicated reduced intent to provide accurate medical and personal history information under conditions of reduced confidentiality. Ten percent (34) indicated that they were not sure whether they would or would not donate blood in the future under this condition. The results indicate that the possibility of release of donors' medical and personal information may have a negative effect on the safety and adequacy of the nation's volunteer blood supply.