Abstract:
Introduction: Limited evidence on the readiness in facilities providing blood transfusion and its
determinants. This study examined blood transfusion services readiness and its associated factors
in health facilities across Ethiopia.
Methods: This study used Service Availability and Readiness Assessment (SARA) 2018 data from
632 facilities. Blood transfusion service readiness in facilities offering blood transfusion services
was measured based on the availability of the seven components including the presence of at least
one trained staff, guidelines, blood storage refrigerator, blood typing, cross match typing, blood
supply safety, and blood supply sufficiency. Linear regression analyses were used to examine the
predictors of service readiness in facilities offering blood transfusion services.
Results: Health facilities that offer blood transfusion services had an average 4.5 (out of 7)
readiness score and only 5% of them had all items. The service readiness in facilities providing
blood transfusion significantly varied across regions. Health facilities located in Oromia [Coef.: -
0.74; 95% CI: 0.014 (-1.32--0.15)] and Somali [Coef.: -1.26; 95% CI: 0.009 (-2.21--0.31)]and
Somali [Coef.: -1.26; 95% CI: 0.009 (-2.21--0.31)] had lower readiness score as compared to Addis
Ababa. Facilities equipped with equipment are significantly associated with readiness scores. A
one-unit increase in the availability of medical equipment corresponds to a 49% increase in service
readiness scores [Coef.: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.001 (0.19-0.79)].
Conclusion: The study underscores persistent deficiencies in key areas of blood transfusion
service readiness in Ethiopia, including equipment availability, blood supply management,
workforce capacity, and adherence to quality standards.
Keywords: blood transfusion, Ethiopia, service readiness, healthcare.