ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The American Red Cross is experiencing a blood shortage following the holiday season, prompting hospitals to manage their blood inventory more tightly.
The School Without Walls is aiming to boost contribution by hosting a donation drive where a donation.
Jacqueline Choate, the medical director of transfusion service at Rochester Regional Health, said the shortage is partly due to one of the worst flu seasons in a long time and persistent cold weather.
Rochester Regional Health has been closely managing blood inventories and prioritizing critical needs, focusing on rare blood types and emergency situations, officials said.
“As far as transfusing patients, we try to keep track of what our needs will be for patients. Our surgical patients, especially our cardiovascular surgery patients,” Choate said.
When certain blood types are in high demand, hospitals redistribute units among facilities to meet patient needs. Blood has a 42-day expiration date, which is a key factor in inventory management.
“So that’s part of our inventory management, is making sure that we are using blood in a way that using the oldest units first,” Choate said.
Nathaniel Thompson, diagnosed with sickle cell at age 2, requires blood transfusions every three to six months. The ongoing shortage raises concerns for patients like him.
“Because, you know, without it, we won’t survive. You know, a lot of people who need it and I’m one of them,” Thompson said. “But without them, then I wouldn’t be here sitting, talking to you right now without the transfusion.”
The School Without Walls is hosting a sickle cell awareness event, a student-led effort running until 7 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome, and the goal is to collect 19 units of blood.
The Red Cross reported a 35% decrease in donations over the past month. For those interested in donating, you can find a list of Red Cross locations here.
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