WA Has "Code Red" Blood Shortage, Bloodworks Northwest Says

SEATTLE — Bloodworks Northwest is sending out a call asking any eligible blood donors to step up and give this week.

The nonprofit says they're so low on blood right now, their shelves are nearly empty with less than a 24-hour supply on hand at any given time. That's forced them to make some tough decisions.

"Blood is being shipped to hospitals faster than it’s being collected," said Bloodworks EVP of
Blood Services Vicki Finson. "We’re actively communicating with hospitals to conserve blood
and appealing to donors to book appointments so that doctors don’t need to make difficult
decisions like canceling surgeries or postponing treatments based on the blood supply."

Organizers say the shortage has largely been driven by no-shows or canceled appointments — so many that they've been consistently short 700 units a week compared to the need. Compounding the progam has been a growing demand for blood in the area, about 10 to 18 percent above the normal need.

Bloodworks says they understand why there have been fewer donors: the warm spring weather and the feeling that the pandemic is coming to a close have caused significant "donor fatigue", but they want to remind everyone that the need for blood continues.

“Maintaining a safe and reliable blood supply is critical to public health and the ability of
trauma centers to respond to emergencies,” said Bloodworks Northwest President Curt Bailey. “The community must immediately prioritize donating blood for the health of local patients, including individuals with cancer and other life-threatening diseases.“

If you or someone you know is interested in helping out, Bloodworks Northwest is accepting appointments at any of their 11 Washington locations. They are also planning dozens of upcoming pop-up blood drives across the Puget Sound region.

In Washington, most people 18 and older who are in good health and weigh at least 110 lbs can donate blood. 16 and 17-year-olds can also donate if their guardians sign a permission form. Bloodworks Northwest says 95 percent of the blood they collect will be given to hospitals in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about donor eligibility and their mission by visiting their website at www.bloodworksnw.org.