The Blood Bank in the Diagnostic Pathology Units provides the services of blood grouping and screening, antibody detection, investigation and resolution. In keeping with modern laboratory practice blood is issued after a computer crossmatch (where appropriate). Electronic release of blood has improved efficiency and blood wastage via outdating is negligible.

The Blood Bank also provides many other blood products in use for support of patients with hypogammaglobulinaemia and coagulopathies and also blood components for chemotherapy patients.

An important initiative has been to expand autologous stem cell transplantation services in a number of centres including Concord Hospital. In 2004, in order to support the comprehensive haemato-oncology service at Concord Hospital, a flow cytometer was purchased to enumerate stem cell numbers and to also provide a more comprehensive haematology immunophenotyping service appropriate for a tertiary teaching hospital. A fully functioning and independent Flow cytometry service has now evolved and NATA accreditation of this new facility was achieved in 2006.

Key personnel:

Dr Alessandra Bianchi Staff Specialist in Charge, Laboratory Haematology