Peter Johnson is a regular donor at the Canadian Blood Services facility in Saint John, where he donates plasma weekly. Having experienced idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura in his childhood, Johnson understands the significance of plasma-derived medications like intravenous immunoglobulin. This personal connection has driven him to donate plasma since he became eligible.
During the donation process, Johnson’s whole blood is drawn, with the plasma separated and the remaining components returned to his body. While he values blood donation, he recently learned about Canadian Blood Services’ partnership with Grifols SA, a pharmaceutical company based in Barcelona, Spain. Grifols collects plasma on behalf of Canadian Blood Services and uses the byproducts to create medications for international sales.
Expressing concern, Johnson stated his disapproval of donations, whether paid or not, being utilized for profit. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a not-for-profit environment in line with donors’ intentions, a sentiment he believes others share.
Canadian Blood Services, excluding Quebec, manages Canada’s blood supply and collaborated with Grifols in 2022 to collect plasma. Plasma, rich in protein and vital for medical treatments, is utilized by Grifols to produce various medications, including Gamunex for Canadian patients.
Although Canadian Blood Services initially claimed to discard plasma byproducts, Grifols later revealed using Canadian byproducts to produce albumin. This Canadian-made albumin, manufactured in Montreal, remains within Canada to benefit patients locally. Grifols, with paid collection centers across Canada, uses the byproducts to create medications for international patients, as Canadian needs are adequately met.
The Canadian Health Coalition raised concerns about the transparency and complexity of the Canadian Blood Services-Grifols relationship, highlighting potential risks to Canada’s blood supply control. The coalition urged government intervention to ensure patient-centric practices prevail over profit-driven motives.
While some donors were unaware of the Grifols agreement, individuals like Tom Frankish and Mike Horgan, dedicated plasma donors, expressed reservations about Canadian plasma products being commercialized abroad. Despite differing opinions on the profit aspect, donors like Horgan continue their weekly contributions, emphasizing the charitable aspect of their actions.
In light of these developments, stakeholders advocate for increased scrutiny of contractual terms and a focus on patient welfare in Canada’s blood supply management.