Remote Donor Release in Plasmapheresis.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Blood donor release prior to donation by a physician is mandatory in Germany according to current guidelines. Due to shortage of qualified staff, the German Transfusion Act was modified allowing the use of telemedicine. The aim of the present study was to investigate the feasibility of remote plasma donor release with respect to donor acceptance and safety.

Study design and methods: In September and October 2024, remote donor release was studied in two plasmapheresis centres. Physicians not present in the participating centres digitally evaluated donor eligibility and released donors for plasma donation. Donors were asked about the procedure by means of a questionnaire after donation. Additionally, staff had the possibility to rate the procedure at the end of the study. Donor adverse events (AEs) were recorded and their severity and causality related to plasmapheresis were rated.

Results: A total of 243 donors fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in the study. Rating of donation safety by donors as well as future use of telemedicine procedures was fine. Staff also welcomed the introduction of telemedicine. The possible time saving of waiting time due to the use of telemedicine was appreciated. One mild AE was reported and the rate of AEs was 0.41%.

Conclusion: Our pilot study shows that remote release of plasma donors is feasible and accepted by both donors and staff. There were no concerns about donation safety.