Donating Blood

Bobw235

Bobw235

Senior Member
Location
Massachusetts
Just back from a very disappointing experience at an American Red Cross blood drive. For years I've been donating blood through Mass. General Hospital (well over 50 pints), after I got tired of how I was treated by the Red Cross. Today I gave them another shot and actually walked out without donating. I had an appointment and 40 minutes later I was still waiting to be called. They were playing loud rock music on a local radio station, which made my BP rise the longer I sat. Finally got up (with my wife who was to donate with me) and walked out, telling the woman at check in that we couldn't wait anymore. When I left there were three people waiting to take blood, but only one person screening donors. The most pathetic, inefficient operation I've seen in a long time. I love to give blood and know how important it is, especially before a holiday, but I have a limit to my patience. I'm going to give my feedback to someone in the organization. They need to know this is not conducive to a good experience.
 

True, but if anyone in the organization cared it wouldn't have been like this in the first place. I've found that giving feedback rarely works -- if they wanted it the way I'd do it, they'd have done it my way. :)
 
I know there can be delays in any volunteer operation, but this was just ridiculous. Had they told the 10 or so donors waiting along with us about the expected wait time, I think others would have walked out. I hope someone listens to the feedback. If not, it will be the last time I donate via the Red Cross. I may not be working, but my time is valuable none the less.
 

Check out you local hospital.. Most have blood drives quite often. I have found these drives to be very efficient and quite a pleasant experience.
 
QuickSilver said:
Check out you local hospital.. Most have blood drives quite often. I have found these drives to be very efficient and quite a pleasant experience.
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Yes, agreed. For years Mass. General Hospital sent a bloodmobile to our office. I'll see if our local hospital has something as an alternative. I want to donate. It's critical to help others.
 
The wait times can be really bad at blood drives. I always bring a good book or three. I've donated regularly since my teens, but the last few years I've been turned down several times...iron too low or blood pressure too high.
 
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