Free blood isn’t free: Govt spends Shs300,000 per unit
In Uganda, blood donation is a lifesaving act that many generously partake in.
However, few are aware of the significant costs involved in making this blood available for medical use.
Blood donation provides not only whole blood but also essential components like platelets and fresh frozen plasma.
These products are crucial for treating patients with low blood clotting factors or protein deficiencies.
Platelets help form clots to stop bleeding and promote wound healing.
Fresh frozen plasma is used in critical treatments to stabilize patients.
While blood itself is donated freely and provided to patients at no cost, the process is far from free.
The Ugandan government spends approximately UGX 300,000 (81 USD) to process each unit of blood.
Dr. Ahmed Bumba, Director of Mbale Regional Blood Bank, explained that costs extend beyond collection.
They include processing, storage, and administrative expenses, such as salaries and allowances for healthcare professionals.
Despite the perception that blood is free, these costs highlight the government's dedication to maintaining a safe and reliable blood supply.
Challenges arise when blood tests positive for infections like Hepatitis, HIV, or Syphilis.
Infected blood must be safely incinerated, which significantly increases handling costs.
"Positive blood is very expensive for us because we have to incur extra expenses to incinerate it in Jinja," said Dr. Bumba.
This hidden financial burden underscores the need for a healthy donor pool and ensuring donors are in good health.
Dr. Bumba emphasized that blood is free of charge in both private and public facilities.
He urged the public to report any sale of blood to hospital authorities or the blood bank for action.
Despite the costs, blood remains priceless, with no alternatives other than human donors.
