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New Delhi, February 4 – India has made significant strides in strengthening its blood transfusion services, ensuring safety and availability across the nation, said Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, in Parliament.
Replying to a question by Rajya Sabha member Ajeet Madhavrao Gopchade on blood banks and human safety, Patel highlighted the multi-tiered system established to ensure safe and efficient blood transfusion services.
“India has made significant strides in strengthening its blood transfusion services, ensuring safer and more readily available blood for patients nationwide. This progress reflects the Government’s unwavering commitment to this critical area of healthcare,” Patel stated.
Comprehensive Framework for Blood Transfusion Services
Patel elaborated on the government’s comprehensive framework for blood transfusion services, including mandatory testing for five transfusion-transmissible infections (TTIs), the expansion of Nucleic Acid Testing (NAT), the proposed establishment of capital blood centers, and the enhancement of the National External Quality Assessment (EQA) programme. The country has also transitioned to a community-based approach to blood donation.
The mandatory TTI screening covers HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Syphilis, and Malaria. To further strengthen blood safety, the government has expanded NAT facilities in prominent national and state institutions, as NAT technology can detect infections in donated blood at an early stage.
“Nearly half of Indian states now have at least one government facility equipped with NAT testing,” Patel added.
Modernizing Blood Banking Infrastructure
To further improve blood banking services, Patel announced the government’s proposal to establish advanced capital blood centres in each state. These centres will be equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including NAT, molecular labs, and HLA labs, to centralise and modernise blood banking infrastructure in a phased manner.
Additionally, the EQA programme is being expanded to all States and Union Territories to ensure high standards in blood transfusion practices. These EQA centres will also include NAT testing facilities.
Promoting Voluntary Blood Donation
The government has taken steps to encourage voluntary blood donation by deploying mobile blood collection buses. These mobile units reach the doorsteps of donors, making it easier and more convenient for people to contribute. This initiative has significantly broadened community participation in blood donation.
Furthermore, blood transfusion services are increasingly being integrated into comprehensive patient care plans, ensuring that transfusions are administered appropriately and effectively.
Disclaimer
This article is based on statements made by Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Anupriya Patel, in the Parliament. The information provided herein reflects government initiatives and policies concerning blood transfusion services in India. Readers are advised to refer to official sources for further details and updates on the subject.
