The Arab Authority for Blood Transfusion Services

The Arab Authority for Blood Transfusion Services operates under the Council of Arab Ministers of Health. Founded in March 1979 by a decision of the Council, it is recognized as a leading organization in the Arab world for organizing and advancing blood transfusion services. Over its more than 40-year history, the Authority has consistently and successfully upheld high standards of quality and safety, achieving numerous significant milestones.

Highlights

• Strengthening and intensifying collaboration among blood transfusion centres across the Arab world involves sharing experiences and information, as well as coordinating regional efforts for advancement among Arab blood transfusion centres.

• Continuing medical education and training are key priorities, with numerous Arab blood transfusion conferences and seminars conducted. To date, 13 conferences have been held across various Arab countries, with preparations underway for the 14th conference scheduled in Qatar for November 2024. Additionally, the Authority has organized numerous training courses and workshops to enhance the skills and capabilities of blood transfusion staff. Six training centers across different Arab countries have been established, receiving trainees from other nations in the region.

• Key elements in blood transfusion services to be developed across all Arab countries have been identified, with representatives appointed to oversee each area. Focus areas include training, blood donation awareness, hemovigilance, quality assurance, and the registry of rare blood groups.

• Plasma Fractionation Project: A recommendation was made to establish a plasma fractionation facility to achieve self-sufficiency in plasma derivatives, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has committed to implementing this project.

• Field Visits: Experts from various Arab countries conducted field visits to numerous blood transfusion services across the region. They reviewed and evaluated the activities to ensure adherence to quality and safety standards, and comprehensive reports were submitted based on their findings.

• Implementing Joint Activities and Programs with International and Local Bodies: Communication channels have been established with international organizations and institutions specializing in blood transfusion, including the African Society for Blood Transfusion Services (AFSBT), the International Society for Blood Transfusion (ISBT), the Association for Advancement of Blood and Biotherapies (AABB), the Arab Blood Transfusion Forum (ATMF), and the International Plasma and Fractionation Association (IPFA). The Authority also participates in World Blood Donation Day celebrations alongside the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and blood transfusion centers across Arab countries.

• Encouraging scientific research in the field of blood transfusion services and allocating awards including awarding the Authority’s president’s prizes for outstanding research presented at conferences.
• Creating and developing a website: The Authority has focused on developing and updating its website to showcase its system, achievements, and activities. The site also provides information and data on blood transfusion services across Arab countries.

• Developing and Updating the Authority’s Bylaws: The bylaws were revised in 2024 to modernize and improve the Authority’s work system, streamline administrative procedures, and strengthen cooperation between blood transfusion centers across the Arab world.