Blood not for sale, only processing costs may be applied: DCGI

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has said that the blood center across the nation can charge only processing costs as blood is not for sale.  The DCGI has banned all charges except supply and processing costs on blood units.

In reference with the 62nd meeting of the Drugs Consultative Committee held on September 26, 2023, the DCGI has highlighted to address the issue of overcharging for blood, that blood is not meant for sale but for supply, and consequently, only processing costs should be levied by blood centres.

In an official communication to all states and UTs Drug Controllers Cum Licensing Authority on December 26, the DCGI stated, “It was recommended with respect to agenda No. 18 of ATR point 3, for overcharging of blood, it was opined that blood is not for sale, it is only for supply and only processing cost may be charged by the blood centre”=.

The blood centres have been now authorised to charge only processing fees for blood or blood components. These fees have been stipulated to range between Rs 250 to Rs 1,550 for blood or blood components. The DCGI has urged states and Union Territory drug controllers to ensure strict adherence to these guidelines by all blood centres within their jurisdiction.