Idaho’s Impact on National Blood Shortage

Since August, blood donations have dropped 25 percent nationally and five percent in Idaho.

According to the American Red Cross, there are a number of reasons for the decrease. This includes recent natural disasters, people working from home, and one of the busiest travel seasons worldwide.

“We normally, traditionally see blood donations slow a bit in the summer as people get busy with travel and activities, but this is a larger number than normal, said Matthew Ochsner, Regional Communications Director at the American Red Cross.

While this is a worldwide shortage, Ochsner said all local needs are a priority.

“We support about 30 medical centers and hospitals across the state,” Ochsner said. After these needs are fulfilled, needs across the country are addressed.

Donating blood can make a huge difference in someone’s life.

“Every two seconds, someone in this country, whether it be a cancer patient, or an accident victim, or somebody going through surgery, depends on that blood being available on hospital shelves.”

But in order to meet that need, people have to be willing to donate.

“It’s a very simple process, you know, blood donation. The whole process takes less than an hour from start to finish.”

There are Red Cross donation centers in Nampa and Boise, as well as several upcoming drives. Those looking to participate in a drive, or set up their own drive, can find out more information here.