Optimizing blood utilization: Experience of blood redistribution policy from a tertiary care hospital based blood centre.

This article examines the impact of a blood redistribution policy in a tertiary care hospital in India. The policy allows for the transfer of surplus blood and blood components to hospitals in need. The study found that the policy increased the monthly transfer of packed red blood cells and platelet concentrates to other hospitals. Most of the transferred units were from blood group B, and a significant number of fresh packed red blood cells were sent to hospitals serving pediatric patients. The policy has been effective in optimizing blood utilization and preventing blood from expiring. It also discusses the importance of blood redistribution policies in low-middle-income countries like India, as they can prevent wastage and strategically redirect blood units during emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the policy benefits healthcare providers and patients in these countries by promoting efficient blood transfusions. [Extracted from the article]