FLOWOOD — Mississippi Blood Services is calling for immediate platelet donors as inventory has dropped to critically low levels, raising concerns about meeting patient needs statewide.
Officials said the organization needs to collect at least 40 platelet donations daily to supply partner hospitals across Mississippi.
Platelets are used to help control bleeding and support patients undergoing cancer treatment, major surgeries and emergency care. Because platelets expire within five days of donation, officials said maintaining a steady donor base is crucial.
“We need to collect 40 or more platelet donations daily to adequately supply our local hospital partners,” Kasey Dickson, the organization’s director of marketing and public relations, said in a statement.
Dickson said sickle cell patients and cancer patients of all ages rely on platelet products to continue lifesaving treatments.
“Without enough donors, those treatments — along with critical surgeries — can be delayed,” Dickson said.
Mississippi Blood Services is encouraging eligible donors to give as soon as possible. As an incentive, platelet donors will receive a $50 Visa gift card.
Donations are being accepted at the organization’s centers in Flowood, Cleveland and Oxford. The Flowood donation center, located at 115 Tree St., offers weekday and weekend hours, including Sunday appointments for platelet donations only. Centers in Cleveland and Oxford are also accepting donors during scheduled weekday hours.
Appointments can be made through Mississippi Blood Services or by phone, though walk-in donors are also welcome. Officials said additional donors are needed immediately to help prevent disruptions in care.
