Haemophilia care in Europe - A survey of 37 countries

Introduction: The European Haemophilia Consortium (EHC) is an international non-profit organization representing 45 national patients' organizations in Europe. Every 3 years, the EHC circulates a survey to its national member organizations to assess the state of haemophilia care. Aim: The purpose of this exercise is to ascertain information about the organization of haemophilia care and treatment availability at national levels. Furthermore, the survey provides a basis from which the EHC are able to monitor the unmet need and stability of care/treatment access in the individual member countries. Patients and Methods: Surveys are distributed to EHC member organizations in English and Russian. Patient organizations are encouraged to share the survey with local clinicians to ensure accuracy of responses. The data collected are in part consistent to provide a longitudinal overview for treatment access, but topical items are included such as ageing. Subsequently, completed surveys are transposed into a database for analysis and reporting. Results: Thirty-seven responses were received from the 45 countries approached, representing an 82% response rate from members. Findings suggest increased access to treatment and some improvement in certain areas of care. However, access to treatment has declined or remained largely unchanged in some countries. Conclusion: The survey has been a successful exercise in enabling a greater understanding of the current Haemophilia care landscape across Europe. However, there remain unmet needs in various aspects of patient care, and specific examples include psychosocial care and general preparedness for an ageing haemophilia population.