Blood Donors are unsung heroes in healthcare. They donate essential blood to those who are in need. And since 1970, January has been designated National Blood Donor Month.
Millions of people in the United States donate blood each year. Their contributions are not only appreciated but greatly needed.
Key Blood Donors Statistics and Where to Donate Blood
Lots of blood donations are needed in the United States. According to blooddonormonth.org, over 6.8 million blood donations are needed annually, and one in seven patients entering hospitals need blood.
Today, more blood donations are needed.
According to the American Red Cross, nearly 5,000 units of platelets and 6,500 units of plasma are needed daily in the United States. Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood or platelets. Nearly 16 million blood components are transfused each year in the United States. A single car accident victim may need as many as 100 units of blood.
On top of all of that, one blood donation can save more than one life.
And with all the need for blood donations, you can help.
To be eligible to donate blood, according to the American Red Cross, you must be “in good health and feeling well,” you must be 16 years or older (in most states), and you must weigh at least 110 pounds.
There are a couple of different ways that you donate blood at a location near you.
You can use the American Red Cross search feature to find the nearest Red Cross location. You can also search the internet for other blood donation drives and centers in your area.
If you’re unable to donate, you can still help. With the American Red Cross, you can host a blood drive, start a virtual blood drive, make a financial donation, or become a volunteer.
How Midwest QIN-QIO Works With Bloodwork
The Midwest Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization (Midwest QIN-QIO) emphasizes the importance of having necessary medical materials in multiple settings, including blood supplies.
Midwest QIN-QIO ensures that healthcare facilities have comprehensive emergency preparedness plans, including maintenance of the facility’s functions, including patient care, staffing, and supplies. A significant amount of blood supply is vital in all health care facilities.
Midwest QIN-QIO emphasizes improving patient safety and reducing healthcare-acquired conditions. Adequate blood supply is essential for safe patient care, especially for surgical procedures and emergency situations.
Additionally, Midwest QIN-QIO specifically requires QIN-QIOs to assist healthcare facilities with healthcare supply chain management which would include the availability of resources necessary for patient care. QIN-QIOs are also required to work with both clinical and non-clinical community organizations. Blood donation campaigns can involve significant community engagement and partnerships.
Reach Out to Midwest QIN-QIO
Want to know more about Midwest QIN-QIO’s work and reach? Email us at contact@midwestcmsqinqio.com, or fill out a form on our contact us page on our website.
Resources
Facts About Blood Supply In The U.S. | Red Cross Blood Services
Blood Donation Eligibility Requirements | Red Cross Blood Services