Evaluating strategic blood donor recruitment initiatives: Insights from King Fahd armed forces hospital experience

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Ensuring a safe and sufficient blood supply requires effective recruitment strategies, particularly in post-pandemic contexts. This study examines the transition at King Fahd Armed Forces Hospital (KFAFH) from a predominantly patient-related donor base to a focus on volunteer-based mobile and app-facilitated donations. It evaluates key factors influencing this shift and explores the potential for applying this model nationally. METHODS: A quasi-experimental retrospective analysis was conducted using KFAFH donation records from 2014 to 2024. Donors were categorized by recruitment type (patient-related, military, mobile, app-based, staff, and other) and compared based on age, gender, first-time vs. repeat status, donation frequency, and infectious disease testing (IDT) outcomes. Donor eligibility criteria and donation intervals were also analyzed. A SWOT analysis evaluated the operational aspects of mobile campaigns, including recruitment strategies, collection sites, and incentive usage. RESULTS: From 2021-2024, mobile and app-based campaigns significantly increased voluntary donations, while patient-related donations decreased by over 50 %. Mobile donors were predominantly repeat donors aged 25-40, with a higher male participation rate. IDT reactivity rates were lower in mobile donors compared to patient-related donors. Mobile drives-held at businesses, schools, and community centers-were supported by targeted outreach, recurring events, and non-monetary incentives. The program demonstrated operational strengths but encountered logistical and resource challenges. CONCLUSIONS: Mobile and technology-driven recruitment significantly increased voluntary donations and reduced dependence on patient-related donations at KFAFH. This model shows promise as a replicable strategy for building a more resilient and sustainable national blood supply system.