Objective:

To highlight the need for enhanced education in planetary health and infectious diseases within transfusion medicine training and to explore the potential benefits of dedicated infectious diseases consultation services in blood banks, including improved patient outcomes and safety.

Key Findings:

• Climate change is increasing the prevalence of vector-borne infectious diseases that can affect blood safety.
• Dedicated infectious diseases consultation services can enhance education and safety in transfusion medicine, leading to better patient outcomes.
• Multidisciplinary teams can effectively monitor and respond to emerging infectious diseases and transfusion-transmitted infections, improving overall blood safety.

Interpretation:

The integration of infectious diseases specialists into transfusion medicine can significantly enhance hemovigilance and patient safety, proactively addressing the challenges posed by emerging infectious diseases.

Limitations:

• Not all institutions have the resources to implement infectious diseases consultation services, which can hinder the adoption of best practices.
• The educational curriculum in transfusion medicine currently has limited focus on communicable diseases, impacting the preparedness of future specialists.

Conclusion:

Enhancing education in planetary health and infectious diseases within transfusion medicine is crucial for ensuring blood safety and improving clinical practices.