Blood donation appointments fall far below usual summer levels

Canadian Blood Services says blood-donation appointments have fallen well beyond the normal summer slowdown, leaving the organization short of the 18,000 appointments it needs each week to meet patient demand.

Since June 1, weekly appointments have been nearly 20 per cent below that level, forcing health-care workers to draw on existing inventory. Community development manager Eric Belden said the trend is not sustainable for patient care if supplies continue to decline.

The organization has added weekend appointments at donor centres across Canada and is contacting people who have not booked recently. Ron Vezina, vice-president of donor engagement and corporate reputation, said hospitals need adequate supply for routine care and emergencies, particularly before the August long weekend, when trauma and urgent-care needs could rise.

Canadian Blood Services says eligibility has expanded over time. Health Canada lifted restrictions about three years ago for people who had spent extended periods in the United Kingdom, Ireland or France during the 1980s and 1990s, and the organization ended a three-month deferral for gay and bisexual men and some other LGBTQ2S+ people in 2022.

Eligible donors can book through the Canadian Blood Services website, the GiveBlood app or by calling 1-888-2-DONATE. First-time donors are encouraged to arrive well rested, hydrated and after eating a good meal.