A Review of Computer Systems in Blood Banks and Discussion of the Applicability of Mathematical Decision Methods

Abstract

The fast progress of transfusion medicine is leading to higher requirements in blood donor and transfusion services which can only be met by EDP in the long run.This article gives an overview on the state of EDP system development in blood banks. The emphasis is on EDP systems in blood donor services. However, some transfusion medical EDP applications are also mentioned. The functional application areas of EDP are shown. The cost-benefit ratio of computer systems in this field is discussed and systems in operation or under development are compared in tabulated, form. Of particular interest in this comparison is the aspect of the applicability of mathematical decision methods for providing decision aids in blood banks by the computer.The cost-efficiency of systems providing improved medical services at the same time leads to the conclusion that a fast growth of EDP applications in blood donor and transfusion services can be expected.