PoPulationand Public HealtH etHics

policy
lived in certain regions in Africa, those with Hemophilia A and anyone who
has possibly been exposed to, or is a descendant of a person that has had,
6, 12
variant Creuzfeldt-Jacob Disease.
Despite the fact that the uk also dealt with a tainted blood scandal in the
1970s and 1980s, this country has recently lifted its lifetime ban on blood
donations from MsM. Currently, a deferral period of one year has attempted
to resolve any ethical issues surrounding the blood donation ban and has
also increased blood supply for the population. Given that other countries
are changing their policies, it is certainly beneficial for Canada to ask the
same questions and think about changes in the policy. CBs 3 has indicated
that it will be exploring the possibility of changing this policy in light of
scientific evidence and advancements. However, with this potential change,
procedural values should be considered as the discussion of potential policy
changes continue.
When one weighs
these burdens in
light of the minimal
increase in risk, the
increase in blood
donations and
the elimination of
discrimination for
this group in donating
blood, it becomes
obvious that a change
in policy is necessary.
Procedural values include reasonableness, transparency,
inclusivity, responsiveness and accountability. 1
They should guide decision making to maintain public
trust in a safe blood supply. The value of reasonableness
suggests that logical decisions be made that are agreed
upon by stakeholders. 1 Thus, stakeholders and the public
should be aware of the minimal increase in risk, and of
the scientific evidence to support this assertion should
a change in policy occur. Transparency, or communication
about the policy change, is already occurring as this
issue has been discussed in the media and CBs 13 has information
on its website regarding further discussions.
In addition, stakeholder views should inform decision
making, with various groups being involved. As evidence continues to accumulate,
opportunities for responsiveness, to revisit policy changes, become
evident. Therefore, a strong evaluation plan is important to ensure responsiveness.
Finally, accountability is a key procedural value, meaning decision
makers must be responsible for their decisions.
In this case study, a safe blood supply and minimal risk is weighed against
the need for blood and the potential increase in donors and the burdens of
discrimination and stigmatization imposed by this policy on a marginalized
PoPulation anD Public HealtH etHics
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