The Ministry of Health is exploring plans to introduce an insurance-backed cost-recovery mechanism to sustain blood transfusion services, even as blood and blood products remain free for all patients. The proposal, currently under discussion within the health sector, would allow the operational costs of collecting, testing, processing, storing, and distributing blood to be reimbursed through health insurance schemes or other financing arrangements. Health officials say the approach is intended to strengthen the long-term sustainability of blood services without compromising universal access. Dr. Thomas Muyombo, Blood Transfusion Division Manager at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), said the country will continue to guarantee access to blood regardless of a patient’s contribution history. “In Rwanda, blood products are free for all patients, whether they have donated before or have never donated in their lifetime,” he said. He noted that although blood is voluntarily donated, significant resources are required before it is safe for use in hospitals. “For blood to be collected from a donor and issued to a patient, there are costs involved in ensuring it is properly collected, tested, processed, stored, and transported to health facilities,” he explained. According to the Ministry, different blood components, such as red blood cells, plasma, and platelets require specialised handling systems supported by laboratory infrastructure, reliable electricity, maintenance systems, and, in some cases, drone delivery services. Under the proposed model, these operational costs would be covered through existing health insurance schemes, including Community-Based Health Insurance (Mutuelle de Santé), the Rwanda Social Security Board (RSSB), and private insurers, or through other agreed arrangements. Officials say the model would reduce reliance on donor funding and help ensure that blood transfusion services remain sustainable. “This will help make blood transfusion services more sustainable and reduce dependence on external support,” Dr. Muyombo said. While discussions are ongoing, no final implementation date has been confirmed. However, officials indicate that a rollout could begin as early as July within the current financial year. The proposal aligns with Cabinet resolutions issued in January 2025, which approved a revised framework for health service tariffs, including blood transfusion services, with implementation expected from mid-2025, according to the Prime Minister’s Office. Although the Ministry of Health has started rolling out revised medical tariffs, stakeholders are still conducting financial modelling to determine the exact costs to be covered under insurance. The aim is to keep the service affordable and accessible while ensuring long-term sustainability.
