Need for Volunteer Blood Donors Greater Than Ever

Augusta, Ga. -- Anyone who can donate blood should do it.

That's the advice of Linda Hicks, LPN, Hemapherisis Technician. Hicks oversees an estimated 600 to 800 blood donations annually at MCG's Donor Room. But considering that an average of 34,000 units of blood are needed daily, according to the American Association of Blood Banks, she would like to see the number of donations increase.

January is Volunteer Blood Donor Month, and the perfect time to begin donating blood or to revisit your local blood bank if you're a past donor. "Type O blood, the so-called universal donor, is in particularly high demand," said Hicks.

First-time donors should expect the whole procedure to take about 40 minutes, which includes filling out a questionnaire, undergoing a physical, donating the blood and a rest period. In general, those who are older than 17, weigh more than 110 pounds and who are in general good health may donate blood. A single pint of blood can help up to two or three individuals and several babies.

At MCG, interested donors simply call and make an appointment. And any blood donated at MCG stays at the hospital to assist patients, including trauma victims, patients going into surgery and those receiving treatment for leukemia and other cancers.

"It's something that is very easy to do," said Hicks. "And anyone who donates can feel proud that they are helping to provide the first level of care for patients who are in dire need."

Blood may be safely donated every two months. Those interested in donating blood at MCG's Donor Room may call 706-721-3694. The Donor Room is open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

MCG Health System is composed of MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty of the Medical College of Georgia and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Hospitals and Clinics, Children's Medical Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by offering the highest level of primary and specialty health care.