Udaipur’s MB hospital  is facing a severe shortage of blood at its blood bank, Particularly those patients  in need of A and B positive blood types are facing problems. 

This shortage has disrupted the treatment of approximately 20 patients requiring regular transfusions. This condition is prevailing since 22 days now and may extend to another 60 days. Many surgical patients are forced to either arrange blood themselves or wait for the blood to arrive. 

Dr. Sanjay Prakash, the head of the hospital's blood bank, highlighted that shortages during May, June, and July are not uncommon. The deficit of A and B positive blood types extends beyond the hospital, affecting the entire region. Efforts are in motion to address the shortage include reaching out to collectors and medical authorities in neighbouring districts to secure additional blood in proportion to demand. Appeals are also being made to both institutions and individual donors to contribute to blood supply. 

Challenges of Blood Donation Camps

Due to the closure of schools and colleges due to intense heat, blood donation camps have seen a decrease in activity. This shortage has put pressure on hospital blood banks, which need around 900 units of blood at once to meet demand. Currently, only 10 camps are being held monthly, falling short of the required 15. 

Capacity and Demand Discrepancy at Government Blood Bank

• Capacity vs. Stock: The government blood bank at the hospital can hold up to 1200 units of blood but currently only has 225-250 units.
• Daily Demand: People need 85 to 110 units of blood every day, which is more than what the blood bank has on hand.
• Priority Needs: 65 units are allocated for patients with A and B positive blood types. Other units are needed for different blood groups, thalassemia patients, emergency cases, pregnant women, anemic young women, and various medical specialties.