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Proposed cuts in RCI Labs

One of the aspects of the proposed changes to the Blood Service is a reduction from 10 Red Cell Immunohaematology labs to 5. This will be a particular problem in Birmingham.

Although most testing is done in local labs from time to time there can be serology required in a central lab. That is partially because the local labs are being deskilled and partially because it always requires additional skills.

The timing here could be key. I am trying to find out what proportion of blood samples need central serology, but haven't got the details yet. This, however, could be another false economy for the NHS which reduces the NBS costs (National Blood Service), but increases those of the Trusts - and damages patients' health.

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