Although the lab at Powell Valley Healthcare is currently stocked with Type O blood, the concern for a shrinking supply of the most in-demand blood type for patients is shared by local hospital officials.

The supply of Type O blood is termed an emergency shortage by nonprofit blood services provider Vitalant after a 30% shortfall in blood donations during the Fourth of July holiday week. The supply of Type O blood dropped to an 18-month low as extreme heat and summer vacations likely contributed to low donor turnout, said Vitalant, the community blood center for about 900 hospitals nationwide.

At PVHC, lab director Alysia Kampbell said while the lab is currently stocked with Type O blood, “we often do not have an adequate supply due to it being unavailable through Vitalant. The need for donors is a real concern, and we would encourage folks to donate, especially those with Type O blood.”

Upcoming blood drives in Powell are scheduled on Aug. 8, 2024 at the LDS Church Gym, 527 W. 7th St. from 1 to 5:45 p.m; on Aug. 28, 2024, from noon to 6 p.m. at Heart Mountain Hall and Oct. 30, 2024, from noon to 6 p.m. at Heart Mountain Hall.

Vitalant said Type O-negative blood can be transfused to patients of any blood type. O-positive can support anyone with a positive blood type. Approximately 46% of the population has Type O blood to give and help overcome the shortage, Vitalant noted.

Vitalant reported that approximately 7,500 fewer donations than needed were received during the Fourth of July holiday week.  This shortfall was on top of about 8,000 fewer donations than needed in June.

To help encourage donations and overcome the shortage, through July 27, donors will automatically be entered to win a new car valued up to $30,000.