The Life Blood Podcast #1 | Why does blood cost money when it is given for free?

Blood donors in South Africa donate blood on a voluntary non-remunerated basis. Does this mean that the blood products, for example, red cells, platelets and plasma products are given free-of-charge for patients who need a blood transfusion?
In this first podcast of the Western Cape Blood Service (WCBS), we discuss eight (8) aspects to answer: why does blood cost money when it is given for free? Namely: (1) Why does blood products cost money? (2) How has the Western Cape Blood Service been able to remain financially sustainable over the years? (3) An explanation about the cost recovery model. (4) An explanation about the major expenses incurred by the Western Cape Blood Service. (5) Who are the consumers of blood products? Who pays for the blood? (6) Who are the other stakeholders of the Western Cape Blood Service? (7) Does the Western Cape Blood Service cross-subsidise the price of blood products? (8) Is it true or is it a misnomer that blood is given for free?
This podcast is targeted at blood users - that is, medical staff, doctors, clinicians, physicians, haematologists, surgeons, anaesthetists, paediatricians, nursing staff, hospital staff, healthcare staff, hospital managers, hospital blood user committees, patient experience managers, case managers. Blood donors, the general public and blood service staff may also find the podcast informative.
Please follow The Life Blood Podcast, where we will debate topical discussions, so as to make the Western Cape Blood Service more accessible for its customers, as well as the general public.
Visit us at www.wcbs.org.za
Until next time, do something remarkable, DONATE BLOOD.