National Blood Supply Contingency Plan (NBSCP)

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Overview

The National Blood Supply Contingency Plan (NBSCP) was developed by the National Blood Authority in collaboration with Australian Red Cross Blood Service (ARCBS) and other relevant stakeholders to provide a guide to coordinate an appropriate national response in the event of a domestic threat or disaster that affects the provision of a safe and adequate blood supply in Australia.

Victorian health services must effectively manage blood supply and use at all times and in particular, in times of blood shortage. This will ensure that blood products remain available for the use of those most in need.

A DHS circular has been developed and is relevant to all health services that transfuse blood products to assist in management of blood during a shortage. A copy of the circular can be found at the Hospital Circulars website.

It is recognised that each health service requires its own internal Emergency Blood Management Plan (EBMP) that aligns with the NBSCP and outlines the process to be followed within the hospital should it be activated.

The Blood Matters program has developed a template EBMP that you can utilise for development of your individual plan.

Template - Emergency Blood Management Plan (379kb, MS Word)

For further information on the National Blood Supply Contingency Plan (NBSCP) please visit the National Blood Authority Australia website including:

Download documents

Quick Reference Guide: Clinical Community – roles and responsibilities (37kb, pdf)
Available from the National Blood Authority Australia website.

Quick Reference Guide: Guidance for prioritisation of red blood cell transfusion (48kb, pdf)
Available from the National Blood Authority Australia website.

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