Premium
Developing a tracking system for coagulation factor concentrates in southern Ontario
Author(s) -
Walker Irwin R.,
Sek Julia T.,
Almonte Theresa M.,
Carruthers Julie B.,
Chan Anthony K.C.,
Pai Mohan K.,
Thibault Alain A.,
Heddle Nancy M.
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
transfusion
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.045
H-Index - 132
eISSN - 1537-2995
pISSN - 0041-1132
DOI - 10.1046/j.1537-2995.2003.00387.x
Subject(s) - medicine , economic shortage , venous access , medical emergency , operations management , emergency medicine , surgery , government (linguistics) , linguistics , catheter , philosophy , economics
BACKGROUND : In response to the transfusion‐ transmitted AIDS epidemic, Canadian authorities rec‐ ommended the development of tracking systems and improved reporting of adverse events. This study describes the development of a verifiable and comprehensive regional tracking system for coagulation factor concentrates. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS : The Hamilton‐ Niagara Regional Hemophilia Program received distribution and utilization data from Canadian Blood Services, 26 regional hospitals, and 70 individuals with bleeding disorders on home‐based therapy. Purpose‐specific software, the Canadian Hemophilia Assessment and Resource Management System (CHARMS), was used to store, monitor, analyze, and validate data. RESULTS : During a 1‐year period (2001), all factor concentrates distributed in this region were accounted for. A higher proportion of FVIII and FIX concentrates (88 vs. 12%) was infused at home than in hospitals, and a higher proportion (63 vs. 28%) was used to prevent than to treat bleeds. During a period of shortage, a 5‐percent reduction in utilization of both FVIII and FIX concentrates was documented. One recall was managed swiftly and efficiently. Two patients reported allergic skin reactions. CONCLUSION : A verifiable tracking system has been developed that can provide ongoing data for both clinical and administrative purposes. Data collection from patients needs to be made more efficient and real‐time recording is an important future objective. Such a system can be instituted locally for less than 1.5 percent of the cost of the factor concentrate used.