(P-IT-5) Enhancing transfusion safety and efficiency through the implementation of the national Blood Bank information system shared by 133 Saudi Ministry of Health sites 

In line with the "Saudi Arabia National Vision 2030 Transformation Plan," the Ministry of Health has launched several e-health initiatives, including the Blood Bank Information System (BBIS). BBIS, led by the Saudi Ministry of Health, strives to standardize and improve the safety and efficacy of blood bank operations across the diverse Saudi environment.

Study

Design/Methods:

The initial phase comprised assessing existing infrastructure and selecting software that met our needs. Beginning in April 2023, a scientific committee was formed to create standard procedures and policies, including representation from all sites. BBIS was configured by the approved workflows and regulations. Following certification by the Ministry of Health, the pilot region, which included 13 sites, was successfully implemented by September 2023. From October to December 2023, the solution was extended to an additional 120 locations.

Results/Findings: BBIS has implemented a unified database system to standardize blood banking procedures across regions and institutions, resulting in improved operational, administrative, and clinical efficiency. This standardization eliminates disparities in blood handling and donor management between locations. BBIS has transformed traditional blood banking by automating laboratory testing and blood type compatibility assessments, thereby greatly lowering human error and maintaining the safety of transfusions. Real-time inventory management is a prominent feature, allowing for rapid views of blood stock levels, types, and statuses, resulting in more efficient blood unit lifespan management and less waste.

Conclusions:

This project sets high standards for blood bank administration in Saudi Arabia. Future phases should priorities information sharing and exchange with other transfusion organizations inside the kingdom, as well as potentially across the region. Real-time Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) displayed at the Ministry of Health provide critical decision-making information for inventory management, turnaround time, error reduction, and more.