There are plans to extend the Blood Bank’s opening hours to facilitate members of the working population who want to give blood. This comes from acting Minister of Health Dr Tim Gopeesingh. He was delivering the feature address at the World Blood Donor Day Walk, which was held at the Queen’s Park Savannah yesterday. “I am advised by the permanent secretary that the National Blood Bank will shortly be opened beyond the normal working hours...I believe that they are looking at opening up till 9 pm and also on weekends,” he said.
Annually, more than 20,000 units of blood are donated by members of the public, but Gopeesingh contended much more could be done. “The WHO (World Health Organisation) recommends that we should collect one unit for every 20 people every year. We are appealing therefore, to persons who are eligible to donate blood to do so,” he said. Most people are qualified to donate blood but must first be in good health and between the ages of 18 and 65 but do not have any communicable diseases. One unit of blood, according to Gopeesingh can save up to three lives. “If you are a regular blood donor, those of you who have not been please start,” he said.
Meanwhile blood donor, Lauren Legall called for more efficiency at health institutions for those who want to give blood. She relayed her story about giving blood and pledged to continue doing so.
“I ask that you look into and solve the current challenges faced by the Blood Bank and the hospitals in providing efficient and adequate service to the willing donors.”