The American Red Cross and UCLA Health announced a few days ago that they need at least 100,000 donations to give patients the blood they need. The shortage can be traced to a number of reasons, including the summer months, when fewer people are giving blood, and Red Cross and UCLA Health's continued use of an outdated software system.
A recent press release stated that less than three quarters of U.S. residents eligible to give blood have donated.
An overview of the recent blood shortage in the U.S.
Blood products are in great demand, with the Red Cross reporting about 118,000 fewer donations than expected during the first few weeks of the year. “We are in a critical situation,” said Anne Paschal, chief communications officer for the American Red Cross Blood Services. “We are in need of blood and platelet donors to give now and make an appointment to give in the coming weeks.” Paschal said the urgent need is due to a variety of factors.
The Red Cross has been impacted by a series of winter storms that have created challenges in getting collections to processing facilities, she said. There also is a persistent need for African-American donors.
What are the reasons behind the current blood shortage?
With the summer in full swing, the American Red Cross is warning of a critical need for blood and platelets nationwide. To help meet this need, the Red Cross and its blood partners are calling on eligible donors of all blood types to make an appointment to give.
Donor appointments can be made by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). “Summer is a challenging time of year for blood collection,” said Elizabeth Pennies, interim vice president of Blood Services at the American Red Cross.
“While the holidays are an exciting time of year for many, it’s also when many people are away from home and their routine giving of blood. We’re calling on eligible blood donors to make an appointment now to ensure there is enough blood on the shelves for patients this summer and all year round.”
Why is the problem not getting better?
The American Red Cross, UCLA Health and California Blood Services have been dealing with a blood shortage since November. The problem has persisted despite a nationwide call for donors. Donations are down by more than 20 percent across the country, according to the American Red Cross. A national blood shortage has plagued the American Red Cross, UCLA Health and California Blood Services for months, and despite a nationwide call for donors, the problem has persisted.
The problem is not getting better, either. Donations are down by more than 20 percent across the country, according to the American Red Cross. The shortfall has led to a critical shortage of blood products. The organization has been using blood products that were donated in previous years, but those supplies are dwindling.
The Way Forward.
The American Red Cross and UCLA Health announced today that they are joining forces in an effort to recruit new blood donors. The collaboration comes as both organizations continue to face a national blood emergency. A nationwide network of community blood drives and donation appointments will be organized in the coming months to help meet the needs of patients at UCLA Health and the Southern California community. The Red Cross has also promised to work with UCLA Health to find ways to improve the blood donation process to alleviate wait times.
Conclusion: With the right solution, businesses and organization's can easily find donors within their local communities and region.
If you have ever donated blood, you know how easily it can save a life. It’s so important to make sure there is an adequate supply of blood available for those in need. The American Red Cross and UCLA Health need your help to make sure there is enough blood available for those in need this summer. Please donate blood if you are able, or if you know someone who would be willing.
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