THE National Blood Transfusion Service, also known as the Blood Bank, received a much-needed mobile blood collection unit last Friday.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Minister of Health Dr Fenton Ferguson said: “The utilisation of the mobile blood unit will be a step in the right direction in allowing access to donors who would not otherwise be able to reach our collection centres. This will no doubt strengthen the work of the National Blood Transfusion Service in increasing the number of voluntary non-remunerated donors, who remain the safest source of blood worldwide.”

Violence and non-intentional injuries continue to put a heavy burden on the health system and place a demand on the blood supply. Blood is also needed to treat cancer patients, persons with bleeding disorders, chronic anaemias, and is even required to save the lives of some pregnant mothers.

“While blood collection in 2013 surpassed the targeted sub-goal of 30,000 units, the country has been struggling for years with recurrent blood shortages, which have a direct impact on medical and surgical care,” Dr Ferguson stated.

“Culturally, we find that persons seem to be more willing to donate blood based on a specific need of a family member or friend. The input of many partners collaborating with the health sector will be required to create the environment that will allow individuals to develop the altruistic approach required to sustain voluntary donations”, he went on.

The sponsorship of the mobile blood collection unit was made possible by Angelia Christian, founder of the Angel Foundation, RAFFA/Blood For Life, Grace Foods UK, and many more partners.

The first blood drive using the mobile unit is planned for January 10, 2015 in partnership with Kiwanis, JLB Shipping, and Jamaica National Building Society.