Optimization of platelet concentrate inventory management using a simple standardized decision‐support model: A retrospective study from a Regional Blood Center

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Platelet concentrates (PCs) are difficult to manage because of their short shelf-life and variable clinical demand. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a modified platelet inventory management strategy at a Regional Blood Donation and Treatment Center on product utilization and expiration-related losses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective observational study analyzed platelet inventory management from 2015 to 2025, focusing on changes introduced in 2024. The strategy included an Excel-based decision-support tool incorporating current inventory, predefined target stock levels, ABO distribution, and the use of group AB platelets as universal products. Apheresis platelet collection was also reorganized to improve supply flexibility. RESULTS: Between 2015 and 2025, the number of transfused PCs increased from 8306 to 13,971 units/year (p < 0.001), while the outdate rate decreased from 1.86% to 0.04% (p = 0.0009). After 2023, apheresis platelets accounted for over 40% of issued products, and the mean use of group AB platelets increased from approximately 7% to over 12%. The mean age of transfused platelets increased from 2.38 ± 1.19 days in 2015-2023 to 2.62 ± 1.33 days in 2024-2025. CONCLUSION: Implementation of an integrated platelet inventory management strategy improved inventory utilization, substantially reduced expiration-related losses, and maintained supply despite increasing clinical demand. Simple decision-support tools combined with organizational changes may provide a practical approach to platelet inventory optimization in regional blood centers.