A Comprehensive SWOT and TOWS analysis of transfusion medicine: Indian Perspective

Background and objective: SWOT and TOWS analysis is a strategic planning tool for identifying internal and external factors influencing a field. It helps to identify areas for improvement and growth by maximizing strengths and opportunities while minimizing weaknesses and threats. Transfusion medicine specialists can better understand the field's current status and plan potential growth using SWOT and TWOS strategic tools.

Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study using Google Forms, was conducted among Transfusion Medicine specialists in India. The authors formulated five open-ended questions for each of the S, W, O, and T categories to address and analyze the main aspects of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. Descriptive statistics analyzed demographic details and keywords, extracting factors for SWOT and TOWS analysis to develop strategies.

Results: 71 specialists, across India: Central (8), East (7), North (18), South (31), and West (7) responded, achieving a 48 % response rate. Strengths focused on Immunohematology and blood safety. Conversely, weaknesses highlighted were limited clinical exposure and insufficient recognition within the medical fraternity. Fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and integrating emerging advancements were key opportunities identified. The prevailing concerns encompassed two primary threats: the potential overlap with related branches like pathology, and the emergence of artificial blood products. The SO, ST, WO, and WT strategies focused on apheresis, recruitment policy, clinical exposure, and newer developments, respectively.

Conclusion: This study highlights the application of SWOT and TWOS analysis as a valuable strategic tool for Transfusion Medicine specialists to address these factors proactively and to enhance the field's trajectory.