What is a deferred donation? A medical perspective
In the context of blood and plasma donation, the term "deferred donation" refers to the status of an individual who has been temporarily or permanently disqualified from donating. This happens after a medical screening process that ensures the health and safety of both the donor and the recipient. The criteria for deferral are set by regulatory bodies, such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the U.S., and are standard practice in blood donation centers worldwide.
The deferral process is a critical layer of safety. It's not a judgment on a person's character, but a medical decision based on specific, scientifically-backed guidelines. A potential donor undergoes a comprehensive health history questionnaire and a brief physical check before each donation. The outcome of this screening determines if a deferral is necessary.
Common reasons for temporary deferral
Most deferrals are temporary, meaning the donor can return to donate at a later date once certain conditions are met. Common reasons for a temporary deferral include:
- Recent Illness: Donors who have a cold, flu, or other infections are deferred until they are fully recovered. This prevents the spread of infection through the blood supply.
- Low Hemoglobin: If a donor’s iron levels (indicated by a hemoglobin check) are too low, they will be deferred. This protects the donor from feeling weak or anemic after giving blood.
- Recent Tattoos or Piercings: FDA-mandated waiting periods of several months are in place for new tattoos and piercings, unless done in a state-regulated, sterile facility. This reduces the risk of transmitting bloodborne infections.
- Certain Medications: Some medications can cause a deferral because they might pose risks to the recipient. The length of the deferral depends on the medication.
- Travel History: Traveling to areas with a high risk of infectious diseases, such as malaria or Zika, can result in a temporary deferral period.
- Recent Pregnancy: Women who have recently been pregnant or given birth are often temporarily deferred to ensure their full recovery and protect their health.
What leads to a permanent deferral?
Some conditions result in a permanent or indefinite deferral, meaning the person is forever disqualified from donating. These reasons are typically related to a high risk of transmitting infectious diseases or having a medical history that makes donation unsafe.
- Positive Test Results: Individuals who test positive for transmissible diseases like HIV, Hepatitis B, or Hepatitis C are permanently deferred. This information is entered into a National Donor Deferral Registry (NDDR) to ensure they cannot donate again at any center.
- High-Risk Behavior: Certain high-risk behaviors that increase the chance of exposure to bloodborne pathogens can result in a permanent deferral.
- Specific Medical Conditions: A history of certain medical conditions, such as some types of cancer, may lead to a permanent deferral.
Comparison of temporary and permanent deferrals
| Aspect | Temporary Deferral | Permanent Deferral |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Fixed period (e.g., weeks or months) | Indefinite; typically for life |
| Reason | Recoverable or temporary condition | Significant, unchangeable health risk |
| Examples | Cold, recent tattoo, low iron, travel | HIV, Hepatitis, history of some cancers |
| Eligibility | Donor can return for reassessment after period expires | Donor cannot reapply to donate at any time |
| Entry to NDDR | No (for most cases) | Yes (specifically for positive infectious disease tests) |
What happens after a deferral?
Following a deferral, the donation center is required to inform the donor of their status and the reason for it. For a temporary deferral, the donor will be informed of the waiting period and when they can return to be re-evaluated. For a permanent deferral, the donor is informed of their permanent disqualification. For certain conditions, such as a positive infectious disease test, notification might be more direct and require a follow-up with a physician.
A different kind of deferred donation: Charitable giving
While the primary context in general health refers to medical disqualification, the term can also describe a planned charitable gift. In this instance, a donor commits to making a donation at a future date, often through their estate or a will, without impacting their current financial situation. This form of giving is common in legacy planning and includes arrangements like charitable remainder trusts or gift annuities. A good source for further information on planned giving can be found on nonprofit websites, such as the American Cancer Society website on creating a legacy.
Conclusion
Regardless of the context, understanding the term "deferred donation" is important. In a medical setting, it is a vital safety mechanism designed to protect the blood supply and everyone involved in the donation process. By knowing the reasons for deferral, potential donors can be better prepared and understand their role in maintaining a safe, reliable donation system. For those who are temporarily deferred, it's not the end of their donation journey—it's simply a delay for the sake of safety. The process ensures that every drop of donated blood is as safe as possible for the patient who desperately needs it.
