Blood transfusion service in the Czech Republic - Organization, regulation and guidelines, quality and safety, perspectives and challenges

Abstract

The Czech Republic became EU member in 2004. Blood transfusion service is hospital based and dispersed. The Czech Republic is self-sufficient in blood components and plasma for fractionation. Donor population constituting mostly of voluntary non-remunerated blood donors is stable and relatively safe. A total of 19 HIV-positive donors have been detected during last 20 years, the incidence for HBV and HCV in blood donors in 2004 is below 0.15‰ and 0.25, respectively. European standards have been accepted and implemented during the last 15 years. Donor and blood collection, as well as processing and testing comply with EU directives. The manufacturers of blood components are under control of the state authority (State Institute for Drug Control). Recommendations based on expert opinion are available for clinical use of blood. Adverse effects of treatment are followed and investigated. Costs of blood components and plasma products are covered by general health insurance. © 2006 S. Karger GmbH.