In response to “Patient‐Centered Blood Management”

Dr. Horwitz appropriately notes that anemia of chronic disease may be better described as anemia of inflammation. We used the more traditional nomenclature for the sake of clarity to those readers who may not be familiar with the newer terminology. We do agree that there is often a role for hematology evaluation, but believe it should be based on the needs of the individual case and the needs of the organization. To be effective, any algorithm must maintain some flexibility for clinical judgment, and must also meet the needs of local stakeholders. We recommend that prior to implementing a preoperative anemia algorithm it is reviewed by the appropriate parties, which would typically include, but not be limited to, clinical leadership in anesthesia, surgery, medicine, and hematology.