Egypt revokes licences of three blood banks over serious violations posing risk to patients

Egypt's Health Ministry has suspended the operating licenses of three blood banks affiliated with private hospitals following inspections that revealed significant breaches of regulations critical for patient safety. These violations, uncovered in Cairo, Sharqia, and Qalyubia governorates, pose a direct threat to public health. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, the ministry's spokesman, stated that inspectors discovered shortcomings in the blood and plasma collection, testing, and storage procedures at the affected facilities.

Inspectors noted that certain blood banks lacked the necessary equipment to screen blood and plasma for viruses and disease-causing agents. Moreover, refrigerators for blood storage were found to be operating at temperatures not in compliance with health standards, while the deep-freezing equipment for plasma storage also failed to meet approved medical temperature requirements.

Additionally, donor medical questionnaires were absent in some cases, hindering the blood banks from properly verifying donor health compliance. These lapses were identified during an intensified inspection campaign by the ministry's Central Administration for Non-Governmental Healthcare Facilities and Licensing, aimed at enhancing oversight of private medical institutions.

Hisham Zaki, the administration's head, announced that legal actions have been initiated and the revocation of the three blood bank licenses has been enforced. The ministry affirmed that ongoing surprise and regular inspections will continue across private healthcare facilities, with immediate legal consequences awaiting any violations that endanger public health.

Authorities emphasized that blood and blood products are indispensable in saving lives, and therefore, zero tolerance will be maintained for any breaches that jeopardize their safety.