Interact Blood DriveDespite miraculous advancements in medicine, there is no substitute for human blood. The need for blood products can occur in persons of all ages, from premature infants to the elderly. Management of illnesses that strike the elderly often requires extensive blood product support. With an aging population, the demand for blood products is likely to increase. An important component of many medical and surgical treatments is the highly specialized blood products collected by LifeSource. A stable blood supply is vital at all times to ensure excellence in the delivery of healthcare in our region.LifeSource is responsible for donor recruitment, blood collection, component manufacturing, testing and product management in our region.
Recruitment LifeSource relies on blood donors to ensure an adequate blood supply for area patients in need of transfusions in the hospitals we service. Donor appointments are scheduled at the community donor centers by our Customer Contact Center Representatives. A team of Business Development Representatives assist blood drive coordinators in the planning, organizing and execution of approximately 10 on-site mobile collection initiatives every day. Our Rescheduling Program offers donors the opportunity to schedule their next lifesaving appointment at the time of their current donation. This allows donors to secure a convenient date and time for their donations. Collection LifeSource has 17 community donor centers, conveniently located throughout Chicagoland, with day, evening and weekend appointments available. All centers accept whole blood donations, autologous donations and directed donations. Specific centers offer automated collection opportunities for red cell, platelet and plasma donations. Appointments can be made online, by phone or at the time of your donation for future visits. LifeSource also offers the ability to donate blood through our mobile operations. Several mobile teams are available daily, visiting businesses, schools, religious organizations and community groups to provide access to donate close to your home or workplace. Whole blood and double red blood cell donations are available at our mobile blood drives. The donation process includes the registration of demographic information, a medical history interview to determine donor eligibility, a mini physical (blood pressure, temperature, pulse, hemoglobin (iron) levels are taken), the withdrawal of a unit of blood and a 15-minute post-donation rest period. The entire whole blood donation process is usually less than one hour. (Click here for additional details about the donation process.) |