A life saving act: SEHA highlights role of Blood Bank Services on World Blood Donor Day
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)On the occasion of World Blood Donor Day, annually marked on June 14, Abu Dhabi Health Services Company, (SEHA), the UAE's largest public healthcare network, reaffirmed the importance of voluntary blood donation and the emirate's commitment to safe transfusion protocols.Blood Bank Services, managed by SEHA with the supervision of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), is a nationally significant strategic initiative, adhering to international best practices to ensure the community's wellbeing.An essential part of this initiative is Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services (ADBBS), which provides blood and blood products to health facilities throughout Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, ensuring that safe, high-quality donations are available to meet the needs of both patients on a daily basis and emergency response.
Speaking to Aletihad , Dr. Hamad Saif Saeed Al Nuaimi, Allied Health Manager – Blood Bank Services, highlighted how SEHA is enhancing donation efforts by leveraging innovative technologies, focused outreach, and robust community involvement to address both routine and urgent transfusion requirements. 'Blood Bank Services maintains year-round blood availability through consistent donation drives, strategic planning, strong hospital coordination, and a robust donor database,' Dr. Al Nuaimi said.'Seasonal campaigns and emergency preparedness plans help meet both routine and urgent demands."On the latest technological advancements enhancing donor safety and efficiency, he highlighted the adoption of digital registration, advanced donor screening systems, and upgraded testing technologies - all of which streamline the process and uphold the highest safety standards.Reflecting on how the UAE's approach to voluntary donation has changed over the past decade, Dr. Al Nuaimi said that the UAE has transitioned towards a more community centred, education driven model.'Increased collaboration with public and private entities, digital awareness campaigns, and recognition programmes have significantly improved donor engagement and retention," he noted.To attract first-time donors, the blood bank relies on a blend of outreach strategies."Community events, mobile donation units, partnerships, and awareness campaigns linked to national days and health observances have proven effective in encouraging first time donors, especially when combined with engaging educational content," Dr. Al Nuaimi said.Regarding the management of rare blood type donations, Dr. Al Nuaimi explained that the Blood Bank maintains a dedicated registry and utilises a Frozen RBC Programme."Blood Bank Services maintains a registry of rare blood type donors and coordinates with national networks to ensure rapid response in critical cases. Donations are often frozen and stored for future use through the Frozen RBC Programme."
Youth EngagementAs a cornerstone of SEHA's long-term strategy, youth are engaged through the 'You Are the Future' programme, with the Blood Bank partnering with schools to raise awareness. "Youth engagement is vital to building a sustainable donor base. Through the 'You Are the Future' programme, Blood Bank Services partners with schools to educate students about the importance of blood donation and community service. The programme empowers youth to become future donors and ambassadors by involving them in awareness campaigns, interactive sessions, and volunteering opportunities — fostering a strong culture of giving from an early age."The service also works closely with hospitals and emergency teams to address urgent transfusion needs.He explained that Blood Bank Services is collaborating with hospitals and emergency services to meet urgent transfusion needs."Blood Bank Services works in close coordination with hospitals, trauma units, and emergency response teams to forecast needs, supply rare units quickly, and maintain a ready inventory of blood products," Dr. Al Nuaimi said."Dedicated logistics support ensures timely delivery in emergencies."To expand accessibility, particularly in remote areas, new efforts are underway."Plans include increasing mobile blood drive coverage in rural areas and outlying communities, and enhancing scheduling flexibility to facilitate appointments in underserved areas. Also, a collection site has been opened in Al Dhafra Region (Madinat Zayed) to reach the population in this area," he said.
Recognising Committed Donors"Regular donors are honoured through appreciation events, reward programmes, and national recognition initiatives like the Apheresis Hero of the Year and World Blood Donor Day. They are also kept informed through personalised messages and engaged in community stories." As a final message to the community on World Blood Donor Day, Dr. Al Nuaimi said: "Every drop counts. Today is a reminder that your selfless act can mean the difference between life and death for someone in need. By donating blood, you are not just saving lives, you're building a stronger, more compassionate community."According to data from Abu Dhabi Blood Bank Services, the number of blood donors in Abu Dhabi rose to 47,841 in 2022, marking a 41% increase compared to 2021.These donors collectively contributed 59,167 units of blood, playing a vital role in saving lives.
Furthermore, 1,006 platelet donors provided a total of 10,041 platelet units.
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