Developing a tracking system for coagulation factor concentrates in southern Ontario.
BACKGROUND
In response to the transfusion- transmitted AIDS epidemic, Canadian authorities recommended the development of tracking systems and improved reporting of adverse events. This study describes the development of a verifiable and comprehensive regional tracking system for coagulation factor concentrates.


METHODS
The Hamilton- Niagara Regional Hemophilia Program received distribution and utilization data from Canadian Blood Services, 26 regional hospitals, and 70 individuals with bleeding disorders on home-based therapy. Purpose-specific software, the Canadian Hemophilia Assessment and Resource Management System (CHARMS), was used to store, monitor, analyze, and validate data.


RESULTS
During a 1-year period (2001), all factor concentrates distributed in this region were accounted for. A higher proportion of FVIII and FIX concentrates (88 vs. 12%) was infused at home than in hospitals, and a higher proportion (63 vs. 28%) was used to prevent than to treat bleeds. During a period of shortage, a 5-percent reduction in utilization of both FVIII and FIX concentrates was documented. One recall was managed swiftly and efficiently. Two patients reported allergic skin reactions.


CONCLUSIONS
A verifiable tracking system has been developed that can provide ongoing data for both clinical and administrative purposes. Data collection from patients needs to be made more efficient and real-time recording is an important future objective. Such a system can be instituted locally for less than 1.5 percent of the cost of the factor concentrate used.
Walker
Irwin R
IR
McMaster University Medical Center, 1200 Main St. West, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8N 3Z5, USA. walkeri@mcmaster.ca
Sek
Julia T
JT
Almonte
Theresa M
TM
Carruthers
Julie B
JB
Chan
Anthony K C
AK
Pai
Mohan K
MK
Thibault
Alain A
AA
Heddle
Nancy M
NM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000554:Ambulatory Care Facilities; D001779:Blood Coagulation Factors / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003625:Data Collection; D018563:Disease Notification; D006467:Hemophilia A / Q000628:therapy*; D006699:Home Care Services; D006761:Hospitals; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D009864:Ontario; D012308:Risk Management
D001779:Blood Coagulation Factors