Benefits of Being a Blood Donor

National Blood Donor Month

January is National Blood Donor Month, and there is no better time to become a blood donor! Donating blood has many benefits, both for the community and the donor. Keep reading to learn more from the healthcare experts at Northern Inyo Healthcare District about why you should become a donor and all the benefits that come with it.

The Many Benefits of Donating Blood

Blood donors help save the lives of those within their communities. Every donation has the potential to help up to three people in need. Blood is also used to treat several illnesses and medical treatments, from cancer patients who require chemotherapy treatments to those requiring emergency surgeries or transfusions after trauma.

But donating blood isn't just beneficial for those receiving it — donors can also reap the rewards! Donating blood gives you a feeling of satisfaction, knowing you have helped save someone else's life. It also promotes good health by reducing risk factors associated with iron overload; one donation removes 250 to 500 milliliters of blood from your body, a significant amount compared to the total of 5 liters you hold.

Finally, donating blood can reduce the amount of iron stored in your body, potentially lowering your risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

There are other benefits as well! Many hospitals and universities offer incentives like gift cards or free t-shirts for donating blood. Plus, many employers provide time off during National Blood Donor Month to reward employees who give back.

How to Become A Blood Donor in Bishop, CA

Are you ready to become a blood donor? The process is simple and easy! Before signing up, you will want to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, such as being over the age of 17 and passing a physical examination.

To make a life-saving appointment through our regional partner, Vitalant, call 877-258-4825 or visit their website. Once on the website, select "Blood Drive Code" and enter "Bishop." You'll then be asked to provide basic information about yourself, such as your age and medical history. You may also need to provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport.

From there, Vitalant will provide you with any necessary information and instructions for your donation. On the day of your appointment, make sure to eat a nutritious meal before donating and arrive 15 minutes early to check in on time. Once you have finished your donation, you'll be given some snacks and thanked for your service.

Ensuring You Are a Proper Candidate for Blood Donation

Don't wait – join National Blood Donor Month today and help save lives while reaping the rewards of being a donor! Northern Inyo Healthcare District’s next blood drive via Vitalant is March 15th & 16th, 2023!

We recommend meeting with your healthcare provider to ensure you are a good candidate for giving blood. At Northern Inyo Healthcare District's Rural Health Clinic, we can assess your health, provide the best advice on giving, and even connect you with lab services.

To learn more, call us at (760) 873-5811 today!