Uzice, Serbia - April 2006 — Two years ago blood donation conditions in the Uzice region of Western Serbia were very poor. About 60 percent of blood donors were family members or donors in emergency situations, and the community had difficulties ensuring the quality of the supply because blood testing and storage equipment was obsolete. The local hospital simply could not provide the quantity or quality of blood services needed by the community.

Through the Community Revitalization through Democratic Action (CRDA) program, IRD worked with the community to improve conditions for blood donation and storage. The community contributed its services, while IRD donated essential new equipment such as a deep freezing chamber, a centrifuge, a laboratory air conditioner, computers, software, and plastic holders. A blood donor database was created, improving tracking and allowing for precise registration of each blood unit.

The new medical equipment and the work of the community have improved the number and quality of blood donation campaigns in the region. In 2000, only 833 people in the region actually gave blood; since the program was established, more than 5,000 people a year have consistently donated. The public is more confident about the quality and availability of blood for normal medical practices as well as for emergencies, and voluntary blood donors and recipients can be sure that they will be treated with professional care and safety.

“Now that they do not have to travel four hours away to give blood, blood donors are encouraged,” said Project Coordinator Rada Smiljanic. “Most importantly, community awareness and participation in blood donations have been raised. This was not possible with the old equipment, and has made a difference.”