Special teams from the Drugs Control Administration conducted surprise inspections at nine blood centers in Hyderabad on February 21 and 22, 2024. During the raids, officers found various shortcomings at the blood banks, such as issues with testing blood and components, overcharging, poor record-keeping, and equipment calibration problems. Show-Cause Notices were issued to the nine blood banks for further action.
The inspections focused on screening and testing blood for diseases like HIV, Hepatitis B, and Syphilis. They also checked if the charges collected by the blood banks were in line with government guidelines. The goal was to ensure that the blood centers followed regulations regarding blood storage, testing, and record-keeping.
The surprise raids took place at blood banks including Sri Balaji Blood Centre, Navjeevan Blood Centre, and Thalassemia Rakshitha Voluntary Blood Bank. Blood banks are required to rigorously screen donors and donated blood for infectious diseases using approved tests.
During the inspections, officers found that some blood centers had issues with testing blood. Some were also overcharging for blood and its components. For example, one center charged Rs 1500 for Fresh Frozen Plasma when the guideline price was Rs 400.
Officers also discovered problems with equipment calibration at certain blood banks. Some centers lacked necessary staff members or failed to maintain critical records. Show Cause Notices were issued to address these violations and ensure compliance with regulations.
In conclusion, it is essential for blood banks to follow strict guidelines to guarantee the safety and integrity of the blood supply. Further inspections will be conducted to monitor practices, and legal action will be taken against any violators.
