Nov. 18, 2019 – Community response requested from all eligible blood
donors
As of 3 p.m. today, Carter BloodCare reports its supply of Rh negative blood for the community is less than one day’s worth, especially O negative.  
At this time, the blood program is not completely filling hospital stock orders for O Rh negative blood – the type used in emergencies. O Rh negative supplies on the shelves of smaller hospitals are being redirected to some of the area’s larger trauma centers to ensure preparation for emergencies.                       

For decades, Carter BloodCare’s largest donor participation has been demonstrated by those of the World War II era and Baby Boomer generations, but these groups are aging. It is essential that everyone in the community begins to look at blood donation as a fundamental support for robust,
high-tech medical care. Over the last few months, Carter BloodCare’s
availability of the most common blood type has even waned. The current inventory of O Rh positive blood is only 1100. Routinely, 1300 to 1400 units could be used by hospitals in one week.  
Carter BloodCare is requesting your help:
We encourage all community members to give blood at a donation center or community blood drive near you. Walk-ins are welcomed or you can schedule to donate, by call or text, at 800-366-2834.
Donors can expedite the process by using QuickScreen to complete donor questionnaire digitally, before arriving at their appointment.
Eat nutritious meal and drink plenty of water two hours before giving
blood. Standard eligibility requirements are a minimum weight of
110 pounds; the donor feels well that day and presents a government-issued photo ID at each donation. For more information on donor eligibility, visit carterbloodcare.org.

About Carter BloodCare Carter BloodCare is an independent, community blood center providing transfusion resources to more than 180 medical facilities in 50-plus counties of north, central and east Texas. The non-profit 501(c)(3) organization is one of the largest blood programs in Texas, delivering more than 300,000 blood products annually to meet hospitals’ requirements for their patients. Services include collection, processing, specialized laboratory testing, storage and distribution of blood and blood products. The program is accredited by the AABB, including a laboratory with accreditation for molecular testing of red cell antigens. It is licensed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is a member of America’s Blood Centers.