The Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) is taking steps to reduce the reliance on medical tourism by intensifying efforts to ensure the availability of safe blood and blood products for patients.

The hospital’s Chief Medical Director, Prof. Chizindu Alikor, disclosed this during a one-day workshop for healthcare professionals themed “Blood Component Therapy Services: The Right Blood for the Right Patient.” The workshop aimed to enhance blood transfusion services and implement stringent safety measures to protect donors.

According to Alikor, the hospital is committed to meeting the growing demand for blood transfusions across various departments.He noted that the move is expected to improve healthcare outcomes for patients in need of blood transfusions.”We are dedicated to ensuring that safe and adequate blood is available for all patients in need. Our focus is on improving blood component therapy to provide the right blood for the right patient, in line with global best practices.”

The Vice President of the Nigerian Society of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Prof. Kaladada Korubo, highlighted the significance of advanced medical equipment at RSUTH, which enhances the efficiency of blood transfusion services.

“The state-of-the-art machines at RSUTH are critical in ensuring precision in blood component separation and transfusion.” This is a major step forward in improving patient care and reducing complications.”

Other experts called for increased collaboration among stakeholders to further enhance blood transfusion services in Nigeria, stressing the need for sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure.