Veripalvelu

Veripalvelu is the Finnish national blood service, responsible for the collection, testing, processing, storage, and distribution of blood and blood components for medical use in Finland. It operates as the blood service component of the Finnish Red Cross, providing the primary supply of blood products to hospitals and ensuring safe and adequate transfusion support.

The service collects blood from voluntary donors through fixed donation centers and mobile drives, and it provides information and support to donors throughout the process. Blood donated is tested for infectious diseases and compatibility markers to ensure safety. Collected blood is processed into components such as red blood cells, plasma, and platelets, and stored under appropriate conditions before distribution to hospitals.

Veripalvelu coordinates the supply chain to meet routine demand as well as emergencies or shortages, and it maintains arrangements for rare blood types and special requirements. The organization emphasizes donor care, medical assessment, and donor eligibility information as part of its public health mission.

Quality and safety are governed by national regulations and international guidelines. Veripalvelu conducts donor screening, monitoring, and continuous quality control, and it participates in research and innovation to improve transfusion medicine. The organization collaborates with hospitals, regional health authorities, and international blood services to sustain transfusion services and blood safety.

In its role, Veripalvelu contributes to patient care, medical readiness, and public health by maintaining a reliable blood supply, promoting donor recruitment and regular donation, and providing information to the public about donation opportunities and eligibility.