New research published in the Australian Journal of General Practice underscores the pivotal role general practitioners (GPs) play in guiding patients with haemochromatosis to donate their blood for life-saving purposes. This practice not only aids in treating the condition but also bolsters the national blood supply.
Haemochromatosis, a common genetic disorder leading to iron overload, is typically managed through venesection, or regular blood removal. When patients are directed to the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, their treatment transforms into a life-saving act, contributing to the national blood supply rather than being discarded at pathology services.
Research Findings and Implications
The study surveyed over 4,300 donors with haemochromatosis, revealing that nearly half (48.3%) chose to donate at Lifeblood following their GP’s recommendation. Furthermore, 62.5% of participants were motivated to donate because they understood their blood would help others, highlighting the critical role of GP communication.
“73,000 bags of blood are being discarded annually, largely because up to two-thirds of therapeutic venesections for hereditary haemochromatosis in Australia occur outside of Lifeblood centres.”
This statistic from Lifeblood underscores the potential impact of directing more patients to donate through Lifeblood, where their blood can be used effectively.
Campaign Success and Expert Opinions
The collaborative campaign by Lifeblood, Hemochromatosis Australia, and the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has led to a significant increase in donations. This initiative resulted in 2,500 additional donations and an estimated 7,500 lives saved.
Dr. Peter Bentley, the study’s lead author and Senior Medical Officer at Lifeblood, emphasized the transformative role of GPs. “GPs are not just treating iron overload – they’re empowering patients to contribute to the national blood supply, with demand at a 12-year high across Australia,” he stated.
“87% of therapeutic donations at Lifeblood are used to make products for clinical use, where the donor meets all eligibility criteria.”
Dr. Bentley highlighted the need for increased awareness among GPs about the benefits of referring patients to Lifeblood, noting that many are still unaware of this potential.
Challenges and Solutions
The study also identified barriers to GP referrals. While 74.4% of donors reported no difficulty in being referred to Lifeblood, some GPs faced challenges with the referral process, citing issues with providing necessary information and a lack of awareness of the referral tools available.
Dr. Bentley noted ongoing efforts to improve the High Ferritin App and referral pathways. “We’re conducting focus groups with GPs to make further improvements, particularly to simplify the referral form and clarify the information needed,” he added.
Call to Action for GPs
RACGP Vice President Dr. Ramya Raman urged GPs to actively discuss Lifeblood donation options with patients managing haemochromatosis. “It’s profound to have something as important as blood donation be part of how you provide care,” she remarked.
Dr. Raman emphasized the ease of using the High Ferritin App for referrals, which involves answering a few questions about the patient’s health and history. Lifeblood then manages the rest of the process.
“For patients, treating haemochromatosis by donating blood means their treatment can be easier, free, and truly rewarding.”
She also highlighted recent expansions in donation eligibility, encouraging GPs to review their management of iron overload. “Many cancer survivors and men who have sex with men can now donate through Lifeblood. It’s a win-win – patients receive essential treatment, and their donations help others,” Dr. Raman concluded.
For more information on referring patients using the High Ferritin App, GPs are advised to visit highferritin.transfusion.com.au.
