Donating blood is a simple way to help patients who need blood transfusions. Donated blood can help people who have lost blood due to an accident or surgery, as well as people being treated for conditions such as cancer, anemia, sickle cell disease, or hemophilia.
Blood donations can provide several important components, including red blood cells, platelets, and plasma. A whole blood donation contains all of these components.
Where Can I Donate Blood?
Blood donations can be made through the Connecticut Blood Center (CTBC), which holds regular blood drives at Hartford HealthCare locations and throughout communities across Connecticut. CTBC offers both whole blood and double red cell donations.
For information about donor eligibility and current blood drives, visit the Connecticut Blood Center.
What Happens When I Donate Blood?
During a whole blood donation, approximately one pint of blood is collected. The actual donation typically takes about 10 minutes. The entire process, including registration, answering health questions, and a brief health screening, generally takes about an hour.
After donation, blood is carefully tested to ensure it is safe for transfusion and is identified by blood type so it can be matched appropriately to patients who need it.
Your blood donation can make a meaningful difference for someone in need.