HRMC Blood Bank Earns Accreditation
August 05, 2016
Owen Bain, MT
Huron, S.D. – The laboratory and blood bank at Huron Regional Medical Center (HRMC) has successfully completed a biannual accreditation survey by the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), according to Owen Bain, MT (ASCP), laboratory director for HRMC.
AABB accreditation follows an intensive on-site assessment by specially trained AABB assessors and establishes that the level of medical, technical and administrative performance within the blood bank facility meets or exceeds the standards set by AABB, according to Bain.
“This accreditation process is voluntary. We choose to participate because we are committed to advanced learning, continuous improvement and the highest possible level of patient and donor care,” explained Bain. “I’d like to extend my congratulations to all of the laboratory professionals who made this survey successful.”
Two AABB assessors were on site at HRMC in June and reviewed policy/procedures, test records, quality control, preventive maintenance, proficiency surveys, staff training, continuing education, competency assessments, quality management, deviation reporting and corrective action for evidence of compliance with AABB Standards. The accreditation is in effect until June 30, 2018.
“Comments provided by the assessors were positive,’’ said Bain. “Our staff continues to exceed standards because quality is ‘built into’ our processes with policies and procedures and quality is ‘maintained’ by staff with compliance on a daily basis.”
HRMC’s blood bank is one of only two non-profit, medically sponsored community blood banks in the state of South Dakota. The Huron community uses between 900 and 1,000 units of blood each year to meet the needs of patients with cancer, heart disease, leukemia, severe anemia, bone and joint disorders, as well as surgery and trauma. Blood donated at HRMC is used locally by patients of HRMC.
Community members interested in donating blood can call 353-6530 to schedule an appointment. For convenience, appointments are available Monday through Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. More information about donating blood at HRMC is online at www.huronregional.org/services/blood-bank.
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