Table 1 –

Issues to be considered for utilising the model for the vocational and academic development in Transfusion Medicine.

○ Take into account the legal and policy framework of the country in which it is used.

○ Take into account the higher and academic education system in the country.

○ Take into account the situation where Transfusion Medicine is not recognised as a specific discipline.

○ Take cognisance of, and be aligned with the vision, mission, policies guidelines and needs of the institution in which it is implemented.

○ Provide a theoretical and philosophical basis for the development of a graduate certificate or postgraduate diploma in Transfusion Medicine (technical/vocational, academic).

○ Be based on the principle of equal opportunity and provide equitable access to students meeting the stated academic prerequisites from all levels of society and health care provision.

○ Contain recommendations for what would constitute quality education for a professional undergoing training in such a certificate or diploma, including the principles of professionalism (13), open-mindedness, critical thinking, scholarship and respect for the pluralism of cultures and complexity of societies.

○ Take into account the fact that the levels at which Transfusion Medicine is practised (primary, supportive and steering processes) will vary according to the level of healthcare (i.e., primary, secondary or tertiary), the developmental status of a region or country, level of implementation of the Universal Health Coverage and Model List of Essential Medicines, affordability, national and local healthcare policy, cultural and socio-economic factors.