Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Plasma-derived medicines (PDM), such as immunoglobulins and albumin, are essential for treating various chronic and acute patients. Their production relies on human plasma, that is a limited resource and increasingly exposed to global supply shocks, such as geopolitical tensions, pandemics, and climate change. Portugal is highly dependent on PDM imports. This study assesses the implications for the Portuguese National Health Service (NHS) of transitioning to a more self-sufficient national plasma collection.
METHODS: The plasma collection and its potential demand were estimated though a grey literature review and data analysis. A comparative assessment of plasma collection and its determinants was conducted among selected European Countries. National PDM consumption data from INFARMED for the year of 2022 were used to estimate the volume of plasma required to meet Portugal demand for PDM. Using official Portuguese tariffs, potential cost savings were calculated under a scenario of full self-sufficiency. A structured stakeholder consultation with policymakers, clinicians, and supply chain experts was conducted to validate assumptions and identify feasible interventions.
RESULTS: Currently, Portugal collects approximately 3 litres of plasma per 1,000 inhabitants annually - significantly less than other similar European countries -, and Portuguese plasma collection covers only 11% of the country’s requirements for PDMP production. Achieving self-sufficiency could have resulted in estimated savings of €39.5 million in 2022. Stakeholders highlighted that enhancing national plasma collection, particularly for high-demand products, and improving coordination across institutions could yield substantial economic benefits and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient healthcare system.
CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that increasing national plasma collection capacity could yield substantial cost savings and reduce Portugal’s strategic dependence on imported PDM. By estimating avoidable costs of self-sufficiency, using real-world data, this study provides decision-makers with evidence on the budgetary consequences of policy changes in plasma procurement.