State healthcare officials are expressing concern over the dramatically decreasing number of volunteers who regularly donate blood.
“The critical shortage of blood across Pennsylvania and the nation is still a major concern as COVID-19 has prevented some donors from giving blood and impacted the scheduling of blood drives,” said Pennsylvania Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson. “Blood is essential for surgeries, traumatic injuries, cancer treatment and chronic illnesses, which is why it is so important for individuals to go to their local blood bank or find a blood drive near them and donate. An adequate supply of blood is essential to ensure Pennsylvanians have safe, continuous access to the highest quality of healthcare. I encourage all Pennsylvanians to consider giving blood.”
Blood donations are a critical and integral part of medical care. Many patients who have major surgeries will need a blood transfusion to replace blood lost during their procedure. Blood transfusions are also used for patients who have serious injuries from car crashes or natural disasters, and people with illnesses that cause anemia, like leukemia or kidney disease, will often receive blood transfusions.
Approximately 36,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the United States. The type of blood most commonly requested and used by hospitals is type O. Type O blood can be transfused to patients with any blood type, which is why it is often used in emergencies when there is not enough time to determine a patient’s blood type.
“A significant factor contributing to blood shortages is a decrease in the amount of people entering the field of phlebotomy,” said Patrick Bradley, president and CEO of Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank. “There is a high demand for these positions as it requires a unique skill set. To help with this challenge, Pennsylvania blood centers provide the necessary education and training to begin a career in phlebotomy.”
There are five major blood donation centers in Pennsylvania: American Red Cross Greater Pennsylvania Region, Central Pennsylvania Blood Bank, Community Blood Bank of Northwest PA and Western NY, Miller-Keystone Blood Center and Vitalant Blood Center.
To donate blood, make an appointment with a local blood bank or visit an upcoming blood drive in your community. All blood types are needed to make sure there is a reliable supply for patients. Most individuals are eligible to donate blood in Pennsylvania if they are in good health, 16 years old or older and weigh a minimum of 120 pounds.
Individuals can donate blood regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status as long as they meet donation eligibility requirements. There is no waiting period to donate blood after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine or flu vaccine. According to FDA guidance, anyone who has recovered from COVID-19 is eligible to donate blood 10 days after complete resolution of symptoms. Check with your blood center before donating, as they may have different criteria.
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