There is no medical substitute for blood, which is why new donors are in demand.
There is no medical substitute for blood, which is why new donors are in demand.
Medical emergencies happen every day, and one critical need is blood. Inova Blood Donor Services provides blood to approximately 20 hospitals in the Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, metropolitan area, including Inova’s five hospitals.
“Our goal is to collect 200 units [of blood] per day to support the hospitals we serve,” explains Nicholas Lilly, Compliance and Regulatory Affairs Manager at Inova Blood Donor Services. “Each organization has a different use level and emergencies happen at all times; sometimes those 200 units could be used within minutes.”
Because of this need, Inova Blood Donor Services collects blood on a daily basis, seven days a week, 363 days a year (except on Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, unless there is a special blood drive). Giving blood provides a critical resource for the community while also saving lives.
Note: If you’re considering giving blood, visit inovablood.org for more information about eligibility. You may be eligible and not even realize it. Here are some common misconceptions people have about giving blood:
They don’t need my blood, there must be a substitute.
False. When it is needed, there is no medical substitute for donated blood.
I can’t donate because I have diabetes.
While true for people with type 1 diabetes, as long as diabetes is controlled, people with type 2 diabetes can donate blood.
I don’t want to risk getting a bloodborne disease.
There is no danger of contracting a disease from donating blood. Needles used are sterilized and single-use, meaning a new needle is used for every donation.
Donating blood hurts.
Most donors describe it as nothing more than a pinch.
I’ve been turned away from donating before, so I shouldn’t try again.
Regulations can change and new tests come out that might change your eligibility. Call 1-866-256-6372 to find out if you’re eligible.
Blood Donors in Demand
Inova Blood Donor services is always looking for new donors. For more information, call 1-866-256-6372.
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