MEDIC Regional Blood Center has a low inventory for O Negative, A Negative, and B Negative blood types. Currently, no blood types are critically low and there is no jeopardy of patients in our region not receiving the procedures that they need. It is important to understand that inventory can change at any moment.
“January is typically a slower month and we have seen that so far in 2024. At this time, no blood types are at a critical level. We have seen an increased demand for both O Negative blood and platelets in the last six weeks. We do need all donors who are healthy and well to continue to donate regularly to keep the blood supply stable,” said vice president of communications and public relations Kristy Altman. “We understand that the American Red Cross has issued a serious statement about blood supplies. In our region, there is not a current threat that our patients could not receive procedures and products that they need. MEDIC is an independent blood center and not affiliated with ARC.”
MEDIC is the primary blood product provider for 26 hospitals in 23 counties in East Tennessee and Southeastern Kentucky. This includes Blount Memorial Hospital, Covenant Health System, East TN Children’s Hospital, Tennova, and the University of Tennessee Medical Center locations.
Appointments for donations are preferred, but walk-in donors are welcome. Donors can call 865-524-3074 to schedule their appointment or visit medicblood.org/donate or download the new MEDIC donor app to search for a drive closest to them and schedule their appointment.
For more information on MEDIC Regional Blood Center, please visit our website at www.medicblood.org or contact Vice President of Communications Kristy Altman at [email protected] or by phone at 865-805-2008.
