Versiti Blood Center seeks donations amid ’emergency’ blood shortage
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Indiana hospitals are experiencing a critical blood shortage. Versiti Blood Center of Indiana has issued an emergency appeal for blood donations, saying that some blood types have less than a day’s supply.
Donations are incredibly low at the moment, with a high number of unfulfilled and canceled appointments. Versiti says over 4,463 appointments have been missed in the past month.
“We know summer is a challenging time for blood donation, and we plan for it every year, but what we see today is dire,” Dr. Dan Waxman, vice president of transfusion medicine and senior medical director at Versiti, said in a news release. “Patients’ lives are at risk. If you are healthy and able, we are pleading with you to donate blood this week.”
O-negative and O-positive blood types are most in demand, but all blood types are needed. When blood isn’t available for patients who need it, it can be life-threatening. According to Versiti, patients who rely on life-saving blood transfusions and people with traumatic injuries, such as victims of car accidents and shootings, are most at risk. Other patients who need surgery or ongoing treatment could face complications or delays due to the limited blood supply.
“The demand for blood simply does not match the number of donors coming through our doors,” Waxman said. “While we deeply appreciate our loyal donors who consistently show up, it’s important to recognize that about 3% of people who are eligible to donate blood actually do. If it’s been a while since your last donation or you’re a first-time donor, we are excited to welcome you.”
Anyone older than 16, in good health, and meets the eligibility requirements is encouraged to schedule an appointment to donate. To do so, visit versiti.org or call (317) 916-5150. Walk-in donations are also welcomed.
There are a number of donation centers across the state, with locations in:
- INDIANAPOLIS: 3450 N. Meridian St.
- FISHERS: 11005 Allisonville Road
- CARMEL: 726 Adams St., Suite 150
- GREENWOOD: 8739 U.S. 31 South
- TERRE HAUTE: 2021 S. Third St.
- LAFAYETTE: 2200 Elmwood Ave., Suite D-16