VUMC holding twice weekly Red Cross blood drives

Right now, the American Red Cross faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during the coronavirus pandemic. It is anticipated the pandemic could decrease the nation’s available blood supply by 25%. 

To help, the American Red Cross will be holding twice weekly blood drives at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Light Hall.

“The need for blood donations persists through the coronavirus pandemic. Caring for the unique population of patients we serve, especially those who are traumatically injured, means VUMC is Middle Tennessee’s largest consumer of blood and blood products from the American Red Cross. If you are able to donate, we would appreciate your help,” said C. Wright Pinson, MBA, MD, Deputy CEO and Chief Health System Officer.  

To schedule an appointment, go to redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code Vandy19. Or visit the sign-up link. 

It's possible to streamline your donation with an online pre-donation reading and health history of time on donation day. 

Blood donation is safe to do and an essential activity 

Edited 3/25/20 to add this statement from the American Red Cross about the safety of donation during this time:

The American Red Cross understands public health concerns regarding donating blood during the COVID-19 pandemic but wants to stress that donating blood is a safe process and Red Cross blood drives have the highest safety standards. American Red Cross blood drives are essential and directly support clinical AND other emergency services remaining open, including for trauma and oncology patients. Over 6,000 blood drives and 200,000 donations have been cancelled in recent days, creating a serious shortage. It is safe to donate at this time.

Upcoming times and dates for Red Cross blood drives: