Challenges for developing sustainable blood transfusion services in the Caribbean

Abstract

Blood transfusion services are an essential part of health care. Timely availability of safe blood is a major challenge in developing countries. The Caribbean region faces interesting challenges in achieving a sustainable blood transfusion program. Several key issues need to be addressed in order to achieve a sustainable program. The use of replacement donors is widely spread with achieving complete coverage by non‐remunerated voluntary donors still far away. With support of external agencies several important documents and training efforts have been produced. However it should be mentioned that economies of scale, resources and local culture still provide major challenges for achieving the goals set by the different countries in the region as mentioned in their regional plan of action.Interestingly these efforts have also provided a unique compilation of relevant data for the Caribbean region. These data provide information on the situation in all the countries regarding essential/key areas needed to be addressed like national programs, self sufficiency, regulations and legislation, quality systems and human resources. Special attention is given to development of a reliable hemovigilance system.Further governmental commitment, improvement of horizontal collaboration and continued support by external agencies like the PAHO, WHO and AABB is necessary to achieve sustainability of quality blood transfusion services.