Blood review

Published: 3 June, 2011

• I WOULD like to address a point made by Dorothy Edwin regarding privatising the National Blood Service (They’re killing our NHS, May 27).

NHS Blood and Transplant (NHSBT) would like to reassure readers there has been no decision made nor have any proposals been made to privatise the blood service. 

There has been speculation in the media because the Department of Health is leading a review into ways NHSBT could be more efficient to help cut costs in the public sector. 

Part of this review involves talking to private providers about what NHSBT could do differently. It is not a procurement or tendering exercise and any changes would not involve activities directly affecting blood donors.

Anyone interested in becoming a blood or platelet donor can call 0300 123 23 23 or visit www.blood.co.uk. 

PADDY NUGENT
Deputy Director 
Blood Donation NHSBT