Implementing a Patient Blood Management Program

Blood transfusions to treat anemia can have a significant impact on patient outcomes. It was recognized that transfusion practices varied among health care providers; many clinicians question the best practice for blood product use. With today's limited supply of blood products and increasing costs associated with transfusions, it was prudent for the hospital and other health care providers to advance their standard of care by adoption of a blood management program. Through implementation of a blood utilization management and clinical oversight committee to develop a standard of care for appropriate transfusion indications, provide ongoing education and immediate physician feedback on transfusion practices, the hospital was able to reduce the use of red blood cell transfusion by 29 percent which resulted in a cost savings of $316,869. The initiative also demonstrated a 20 percent reduction in the number of transfusions.

This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.

Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:

• Safe
• Timely
• Effective
• Efficient
• Equitable
• Patient-centered

(The Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement.)