Media Release

Udupi, Oct 9: The Centre of Excellence in Immunohematology, Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Kasturba Medical College (KMC), Manipal, supported by Quidel Ortho, organized a three-day national workshop (6th to 8th October) on “Lean Six Sigma in Transfusion Medicine”, a first-of-its-kind initiative in the field of Transfusion Medicine in India.

The workshop was inaugurated by Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal. In his address, he emphasized the institution’s commitment to providing quality services in healthcare. Dr Ganesh Mohan, head of the department, welcomed the gathering and highlighted the importance of continuous learning and quality improvement in laboratory and transfusion practices.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Shamee Shastry, professor and coordinator of the Centre of Excellence, stated that this workshop marks an important milestone in the journey toward integrating Lean Six Sigma principles into Transfusion Medicine. She added that the program is an outcome of an Industry–Academia collaboration, aligning with the Centre’s vision to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure precision in transfusion services.

The training sessions were conducted by Abhishek Budhraja, certified trainer from the American Society for Quality (ASQ), who guided participants through practical tools and methodologies of Lean Six Sigma applicable to blood center operations. Dr Shikha Malhotra and Kamal from Quidel ortho were present for the program. Dr Deepika Chenna proposed a vote of thanks.

Participants from prestigious institutes across India attended the workshop, As a follow-up to the workshop, participants will undertake a 100-day project to implement Lean Six Sigma concepts in their respective centers, fostering a culture of quality improvement.