As we collectively reflect on the accomplishments and advancements of 2023, we extend our deep gratitude to our members, strategic partners, and allies who have played an instrumental role in propelling our mission forward. America’s Blood Centers remains unfaltering in our dedication to advancing and amplifying the vital contributions of community blood centers in ensuring the availability of safe and accessible blood for those in need.
We take immense pride in the significant strides and impactful achievements made over the last twelve months. They would not have been possible without the work of our members across the country. Here’s an overview of the many successes and initiatives that have shaped the landscape of blood donation and advocacy:
Implementation of Individual Donor Assessments
One of the pivotal moments of this year was the FDA’s issuance of final guidance establishing a blood donor screening process based on individual donor assessments rather than sexual orientation. This milestone development represents a significant leap forward in ensuring an equitable and inclusive donation process, while underscoring the blood community’s commitment to the safety of the blood supply.
Expanding Access to Lifesaving Blood Products
FDA issued final guidance extending the shelf-life of cold-stored platelets, ensuring increased access to this important blood product for actively bleeding patients.
Eliminating Needless Discards, Elevating Stewardship
We are proud to have been part of the collaborative efforts to eliminate the unnecessary discard of blood donations for errors in blood pressure, pulse, weight, and donation frequency. This move safeguards the availability of blood and highlights our commitment to responsible stewardship of blood products.
Legislation and Initiatives to Enable Greater Access to Blood Products
The reintroduction of legislation in the Senate to expand access to blood in hospice is a testament to our ongoing advocacy work. At the same time, the launch of a new coalition focused on bolstering access to blood in the pre-hospital environment holds great promise in potentially saving even more lives. These efforts emphasize our commitment to driving systemic change that improves healthcare outcomes.
Inaugural Blood Advocacy Week Strengthened Collaboration
The launch of our inaugural Blood Advocacy Week exemplified the power of collaboration, bringing together 55 partners to champion the value of blood donation. This initiative not only amplified awareness about the need for a strong blood supply, but also fueled collaboration and momentum for positive change within the blood advocacy space.
Upholding Fair and Accurate Reimbursement for Blood Products and Services
Using feedback from across our membership, we helped shape the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ final guidance promoting fair and accurate reimbursement for blood products and blood center services. This success speaks volumes about our ongoing commitment to the vital role played by blood centers and the necessity for adequate compensation.
Fostering Community Engagement and Partnerships
We formed impactful new national partnerships to help members build on their important work with iHeart Media, ValPak, and Body Interact. At the same time, collaborations with HOSA and LGBTQ organizations continued, alongside expanded work with the business community, schools, and patient and physician organizations.
Engaging an Empowered Community
We launched the first part of our new Executive Leadership Institute, the Women’s Executive Leadership Community (WELC). WELC empowers leaders throughout the blood community through networking and professional development and is an example of our commitment to the individuals that ensure blood is available to every patient in need.
Thank you for being part of this incredible work. We can’t wait to see what 2024 brings!