As the nation faces a critical blood shortage, Banner Health is urging all eligible donors to make an appointment to donate with Vitalant, which services about 900 hospitals across the country. Vitalant’s blood supply faces a historic, two-year low, including type O, the most transfused blood type and critical during emergencies.
The omicron variant is the latest COVID-19 complication that has forced the cancellation of community blood drives, which lessens the number of healthy and available donors.
Making a blood donation is a simple way to recognize the heroic efforts of health care workers nationwide while serving patients in need.
Banner Health is participating in a national virtual blood drive to make it simple for family, friends and the community to support healthcare workers.
To participate in the Healthcare United virtual blood drive, pledge your support and schedule your appointment at https://northeast.vitalant.
As thanks for helping to save lives, all who come to #GiveBlood in January, National Blood Donor Month, are automatically
Also, those who donate blood now through Jan. 31 will receive a voucher for a one-day admission to the Feb. 3 to April 5 Arizona Renaissance Festival.
All blood types are critically needed, with a severe need for type O and platelet donations. Type O is often needed in emergencies and for routine lifesaving surgeries, cancer treatments and more. About half of all platelet donations support cancer patients. Platelets, which help form blood clots and stop bleeding, also help those living with blood disorders and undergoing open-heart surgery and transplants.
To make an appointment or for more information, visit vitalant.org or call 877-25-VITAL. Donors must feel well on the day of their donation. There’s no waiting period to donate for those who have received a COVID-19 vaccine or seasonal flu vaccine if all other eligibility requirements are met.
