An analysis of selected blood service policy changes

Prinicipal national goals for a blood service system are concerned with shortage, quality, acessibility, and efficiency. Since regional blood service operating objectives based on these goals are in partial conflict, a single policy does not exist. Using a computer-based planning system, four policies are examined and tested for their effects on these objectives. [corrected] The policies are: use of frozen red cells ( a technological alternative); extension of the useful life of fresh blood (a legal alternative); improved collection planning (a planning alternative), and improved inventory management (a management alternative). Model projections of the effects of each policy and comparative performance of each policy with respect to the principal objectives are discussed.