Blood services
Blood service activities refer to the donation, testing, processing, storage and distribution of human blood and blood components in case it is intended for patient use, not for research use or as blood samples. Fimea steers and supervises blood service activities and the safety of blood products in Finland and participates in international co-operation between authorities. Upon application, Fimea grants a licence to a Blood Establishment, regularly inspects the licenced Blood Establishments (at least every two years), and provides guidance and advice on the application of the regulations on blood sector.
The donation of blood and blood components must always be voluntary. Donors may not receive financial compensation or any other comparable benefit for the donation.
Donated blood is separated into blood components and processed into blood products. Red blood cell, platelet and plasma products are used in transfusions. Plasma is also used to produce medicines.