BBBTV12 Serving Anderson, Roane, and Morgan Counties
MEDIC Regional Blood Center says it is dealing with low inventory levels for several blood types and is asking eligible donors to give as soon as possible.
According to MEDIC, supplies of O positive and O negative blood are low, while B negative is at a critically low level.
To encourage donations, MEDIC is offering $25 e-gift cards to successful O positive, O negative, and B negative whole blood and ALYX donors. The incentive runs through March 31.
Donations are being accepted at all MEDIC donor centers and mobile drives.
MEDIC says demand for blood products has been especially high this week. Officials also remind the public that blood currently on the shelves is what would be used in a trauma emergency, and it takes at least three days for donated blood to be processed and ready for distribution.
Appointments can be made online through MEDIC’s website, on the MEDIC app, or by calling 865-524-3074. Walk-ins are also welcome. Donors can complete their screening questionnaire before arriving by visiting medicpass.org.
MEDIC is the primary blood supplier for 25 hospitals and air medical transport services across 23 counties, including Blount Memorial, Covenant Health System, East Tennessee Children’s Hospital, Tennova Healthcare, and UT Medical Center.
All blood donations made through MEDIC stay local and help patients in East Tennessee and Southeastern Kentucky.
