Story perspectives

NZ Blood Service Shifts to Behavior-Based Screening, Ends MSM Deferral

4/28/2026

31 6

Summary

NZ Blood Service Updates

New Zealand Blood Service will begin behavior-based screening for donors on 4 May, replacing the rule that deferred men who have sex with men for oral or anal intercourse in past three months and now asking donors the same sexual-history questions.
A SPOTS study found four out of five gay and bisexual New Zealanders would donate if the rules changed.
Dr Sarah Morley said the review confirmed screening will not compromise blood safety.

Summary

Australia expands plasma

Australia’s newly launched Plasma Pathway expands eligibility to include donors who are on pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
The pathway is the first formal mechanism in the region to allow PrEP users to contribute plasma for medical use.
A study underpinning the Australian model found no participants with confirmed undiagnosed HIV.
New Zealand health officials will watch the rollout, noting Dr Sriamporn’s suggestion that future domestic studies could assess safety.

Summary

Saxton Pushes Donations

Saxton warns that converting the surge of goodwill into donation appointments will be the next critical step.
A notable minority of participants feel alienated by the former policy and are unsure about donating, despite many citing altruism.
The University’s SPOTS study projects the policy could raise eligible gay and bisexual male donors from 13 % to 41 %, expanding the pool from about 5,200 to 16,400 men and tripling potential donors.

Summary

Burnett Foundation Launches

The Burnett Foundation announced a new behavior-based donor screening policy.
Chief executive Liz Gibbs called it a major step toward equitable donor assessment.
The foundation will monitor the rollout to ensure safety while supporting fairness.
It will work with the blood service to educate potential donors on the new criteria.
Officials said consistent screening should improve public confidence and increase donation rates.

1 of 4

NZ Blood Service Updates

New Zealand Blood Service will begin behavior-based screening for donors on 4 May, replacing the rule that deferred men who have sex with men for oral or anal intercourse in past three months and now asking donors the same sexual-history questions.
A SPOTS study found four out of five gay and bisexual New Zealanders would donate if the rules changed.
Dr Sarah Morley said the review confirmed screening will not compromise blood safety.

1 / 4