Home blood transfusions: the medical, economic, and legal issues surrounding a new treatment procedure

Blood transfusions have almost always been confined to hospital settings in the past. Recent medical care trends have shifted some therapies (e.g., renal dialysis, hemophilia treatment) into the patient's home. Transfusions are now being given in increasing numbers to stable patients in their homes. This paper examines the medical aspects, the economic issues, and the legal implications of such transfusions. Candidates for home transfusion must be carefully chosen primarily according to the medical guidelines for such treatment. Any legal issues must be satisfactorily answered before approval is given. The paper concludes that if done properly, home transfusions can be safe, cost-effective, and convenient for a carefully selected segment of patients.