MedWest-Harris hosting American Red Cross blood drive Thursday, July 12

7/6/2012

Sylva, N.C. – MedWest-Harris is hosting an American Red Cross blood drive Thursday, July 12 to help with the decline in blood donations typically seen in summer months.

The American Red Cross sees a drop in blood donations during the summer months because regular donors are often busy with seasonal activities and may overlook scheduling appointments. Blood donations from high school and college students, which account for as much as 20 percent of donations during the academic year, also are not available when school is out of session.

Nationwide, American Red Cross blood donations are down by 10 percent, with 50,000 fewer pints of blood than expected. The American Red Cross currently has half the amount of readily available blood than they had at this time last year. Blood and platelet donors are needed.

The MedWest-Harris blood drive is from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Thursday, July 12. Donors should check in at the West Entrance in the main lobby.

Appointments can be scheduled by calling (828) 586-7130, but walk-ins are also welcome. Donors must present a photo ID or American Red Cross card at check-in.

MedWest Health System provides healthcare for the people of western North Carolina at MedWest-Harris, MedWest-Haywood and MedWest-Swain hospitals, the outpatient facility MedWest-Franklin, and through the 100-member MedWest Physician Network. MedWest is affiliated with Carolinas HealthCare System.

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