Blood Bank of Alaska in need of Type-O blood

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - The Blood Bank of Alaska is in critical need of O-negative and O-positive blood donors.

Robert Scanlon, Blood Bank of Alaska CEO, said this time every year is when blood donations are needed the most.

“There are a lot of Alaskans who are going out into the wilds of Alaska … and they get injured,” Scanlon said. “So we see an exponential increase in the amount of O-negative blood that is needed to respond to those emergencies.”

There is also a shortage this time of year due to the amount of people vacationing or otherwise unavailable during the summer, Scanlon said, including otherwise regular donors.

Roughly 38% of Alaskans are eligible to donate blood but only about 3% do, and that is accounting for all blood types.

“It just gives you an idea how few Alaskans actually roll up their sleeves to donate blood, and our appreciation to those who do, but it’s really important that Alaskans consider coming in and donate this time of year to ensure a good blood supply.”

The Blood Bank has been using more blood this year than in previous years, although the reason is not completely clear, he said. So far, they have been able to meet the need, but they are at a critical point and need donations.

O-negative specifically is such an important blood type because it is compatible with everyone, but O-negative donors make up only 7% of the population, Scanlon said. In addition, O-negative donors can only receive O-Negative.

Scanlon said the bank spreads the word through social media, radio, and asking donors to tell their friends and family. Prospective donors should call (907) 222-5630 to make an appointment. The bank also allows walk-in visits.

After a mini-physical and answering a few questions that determine the prospective donor’s eligibility, the blood-drawing goes forth and is followed by some cookies and juice afterwards.

“It’s a very simple process and we encourage folks to consider it and, more importantly, to come in and actually follow through on donating blood,” Scanlon said. “It’s a painless process, it’s a lot of fun — believe it or not — and you’ll feel good that you did."

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