The U.S. Embassy, in cooperation with the National Blood Transfusion Center (NBTC), and the Lao People’s Army, provided a four-day workshop on Pre-transfusion Testing for the Ministry of Health, Lao Red Cross and Lao People’s Army medical personnel from thirteen provinces. The workshop was conducted 26-29 January in Luang Prabang.
This training was designed to develop awareness and knowledge on pre-transfusion testing and blood transfusion processes among a selected group of technicians from provincial hospitals, Lao Red Cross, and Lao People’s Army.
The workshop was organized by NBTC and the Military Medical Department of the Lao People’s Army, with support from the U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM).
The opening ceremony was attended by Associate Dr. Sing Manolath, Vice President of Lao Red Cross, Dr. Chanthala Souksakone, Acting NBTC Director, Lieutenant Commander Frederick Matheu, MSC, USN, USPACOM and Dr. Manyvone Bounthongsy, Director of Luang Prabang Lao Red Cross.
During his remarks, Associate Dr. Sing Manolath noted that the blood program was very important for Lao society to support Millennium Development Goals and National Socio-Economic Development Plan. He encouraged increased blood donation with the goal of sixty thousand bags per year. He also expressed the importance of safe and reliable blood collection and processing to minimize harm to the recipients. Finally, Dr. Sing requested participants pay attention to the training and utilize it in their duties.
During the workshop, participants learned about quality system audits, ABO/Rh/Anti-body screening, look back system and transfusion services. In addition, they performed antibody screening and compatibility testing.
This program on blood safety for Lao Red Cross, public hospitals and the Lao People’s Army is part of the continuing partnership between the U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Pacific Command, the National Blood Transfusion Center, and the Military Medical Department of the Lao People’s Army to assist in meeting Lao PDR’s Millennium Development Goals.
