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Costs of blood transfusion: a process-flow analysis
S B Cantor1, D V Hudson, B Lichtiger
1Department of Medical Specialties, Ambulatory and Supportive Care Oncology Research Program, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030-4095, USA. sbcantor@mdanderson.org
Summary
The cost of transfusing two units of packed red blood cells (RBCs) in cancer patients is higher than previously estimated. This analysis reveals significant expenses associated with RBC transfusions in oncology settings.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Health Economics
- Transfusion Medicine
Background:
- Red blood cell (RBC) transfusions are common in cancer care.
- Accurate cost analysis of RBC transfusions is crucial for resource allocation.
- Previous cost estimations may not fully capture the complexities in specialized settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the comprehensive cost of transfusing 2 units of packed RBCs.
- To analyze costs across different cancer patient subgroups (solid tumor, hematologic malignancy) and bone marrow transplantation (BMT) status.
- To provide a detailed cost breakdown for transfusion services in a cancer center.
Main Methods:
- Process-flow analysis was employed to identify all associated costs.
- Structured interviews were conducted to gather data on personnel time and resource utilization.
- Costs were evaluated for outpatient transfusions in five distinct patient cohorts.
Main Results:
- The mean cost for a 2-unit packed RBC transfusion ranged from $548 to $569 across patient groups.
- Costs were sensitive to clinician compensation and overhead, but less so to direct blood or lab expenses.
- Transfusion reaction likelihood had minimal impact on overall cost.
Conclusions:
- The actual cost of packed RBC transfusions in cancer patients is higher than previously reported.
- Comprehensive cost analysis is essential for understanding resource utilization in cancer care.
- These findings highlight the need for efficient transfusion strategies in oncology.