Why Donating Blood is Essential and How You Can Make a Difference
June 08, 2026 | Tags:
Every two seconds. That's how often a person in the U.S. needs blood. Blood donations are a crucial part of healthcare as they help patients of all ages. However, there’s a continuous struggle for supply to keep up with demand. Lifesaving care starts with one person, and that person can be you.
What is blood donation?
Blood donation is a procedure in which people volunteer to have blood collected and given to someone who needs it. These donations are used for medical procedures, treatments and emergencies. There are different types of blood donations* you can contribute to and each one helps meet different patients’ needs:
| Type of Donation | Definition | Ideal Blood Types |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Blood | The most common and versatile donation type. Can be administered in its original form or help multiple people when divided into specific elements (red cells, platelets). | All blood types |
| Power Red | This donation process automatically sorts red blood cells from other blood components and reinfuses plasma and platelets safely back to the donor. | O positive, O negative, A negative and B negative |
| Platelets | Platelets help form clots and stop bleeding. This donation type collects platelets, and some plasma, before returning red blood cells and most plasma to the donor. | A positive, A negative, B positive, O positive, AB positive and AB negative |
| Plasma | Plasma is separated from other blood components through an automated procedure and reinfuses red blood cells and platelets back to the donor. | AB positive, AB negative |
People donate blood for many reasons. Some know a family member or friend who relied on it for treatment or an emergency. Others believe it’s the right thing to do or that it provides a sense of purpose. Ultimately, you do not need a reason to give blood. The simple act of donating can have a major impact on others. A fear of needles can prevent some people from donating. Just know that a few seconds of discomfort can be worth the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping save lives.
Why is donating blood important?
Blood cannot be manufactured; it can only come from living donors. One pint of blood can save up to three lives. For such a crucial resource, there are often shortages. Only 3% of age-eligible people donate each year as supplies struggle to meet demand. Patients can need blood for several reasons:
- Cancer treatments
- Surgeries or transplants
- Chronic illness that requires frequent transfusions, like sickle cell
- Traumatic injuries
Medical Mutual plays a critical role in improving outcomes for individuals who rely on blood donations. For one member living with sickle cell disease, we helped coordinate care, monitor her condition and support her treatment plan to reduce repeated hospital visits.
Over time, she became more engaged in her care—attending appointments regularly, following up with her behavioral health counselor and managing her medications. With this collaboration, our member went several months without hospitalization or red flags. Our team's ability to provide access to coordinated care, appropriate pain management and preventive support can make a meaningful difference in quality of life.
What to know about donating blood
Donating blood is a safe procedure. Strict guidelines are in place to ensure donor safety and blood quality. Below are some common questions and information to know before donating blood*:
- How much blood will I donate? Each donation collects one pint (0.5 liters) of blood. The body typically contains 10 to 12 pints of blood and replaces donated blood within four to six weeks.
- How often can I donate? People can donate blood every 56 days or up to six times a year. This number can vary based on your red cell and plasma count and if they fall within guideline limits.
- How old do I have to be to donate blood? You must be at least 17 years old to donate blood in most states, and 16 years old with parental consent in some states.
- Is there a weight requirement to donate blood? Yes, you must be at least 110 pounds (49.8 kilograms). There may be additional weight requirements for donors 18 or younger and all high school donors.
- Is there a height requirement to donate blood? Height requirements may apply depending on donation type and differ by sex.
- How do I learn about my blood type? You can have your blood type determined when you donate at a local center. You can also ask your primary care provider (PCP) about getting a blood test at their office or an in-network lab.
There are several factors that can make you ineligible to donate blood, including if you:
- Do not feel well.
- Take certain medications.
- Have low hemoglobin levels (women need levels of at least 12.5 g/dL and men at least 13 g/dL).
- Have lived or traveled to a malaria-risk country within the past three years.
Donating blood takes around one hour. This includes the donation time along with registration and a mini-physical plus rest and recovery, where you’ll be given juice and a snack.
Donating blood is completely voluntary, so you won’t be charged for the process or required to submit a claim. You will only need a valid, unexpired form of identification. You can find out more about blood donations and eligibility through organizations like the American Red Cross.
*This information is based on whole blood donations, the most common type. Information for different types of donations varies.
Talk to your provider about blood donations
Talk to your PCP if you have questions about donating blood, including your eligibility if you take certain medications or have a chronic condition. Most people with chronic conditions can donate blood if they’re healthy, meet eligibility requirements and the condition is under control. Medical Mutual can help you find a PCP. Use our provider search tool at MedMutual.com/FindAProvider or call the Customer Care phone number listed on your member ID card to speak to a representative.
Looking for a blood drive near you? The American Red Cross can help you find one in your area. Visit their website to learn more.
*This list is not all-inclusive. The type of blood donation you make depends on your blood type and current patient needs, ensuring your contribution is used as effectively as possible.