Sardinia confronts blood supply shortfall and stalled hospital chief appointments

In Sardinia, the regional health authority reports an annual need for about 107,000 units of blood but collects only around 75,000, leaving a deficit of more than 32,000 units. The shortfall worsens in summer as donations drop while demand rises due to higher temperatures, tourism influx and vulnerable patients. The Azienda Ospedaliero‑Universitaria of Sassari has issued a fresh appeal for eligible donors aged 18‑70 to help maintain essential services.

At the same time, the Ares Sardegna health company faces criticism from mayors in the Sulcis‑Iglesiente area over the slow appointment of roughly 30 senior hospital positions. Only three of the expected chief‑physician posts have been filled, prompting local officials to demand clearer timelines, while the company cites recent regional approvals that have allowed ten of the pending contests to proceed.