Sweden’s blood bank service notifies donors via text message whenever their blood is used. The initiative aims to raise awareness for the need for blood donation, which has recently been on the decline.
How it Works?
People who donate initially receive a ‘thank you’ text when they give blood, but they get another message when their blood makes it into somebody else’s veins.
The service says the messages give donors more positive feedback about how they’ve helped their fellow citizens – which encourages them to donate again. Remember, each pint of blood helps save up to three lives according to the Red Cross. Sweden’s text message initiative may just keep these numbers up.
Every two seconds someone needs blood. It is essential for surgeries, cancer treatment, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries. Whether a patient receives whole blood, red cells, platelets or plasma, this lifesaving care starts with one person making a generous donation. Recognition for good actions will only encourage people to do more. The sent text messages may be automated. However, the gratitude of the person who received the blood will be genuine.
Impact on People
This new initiative, where donors are sent automatic text messages telling them when their blood has actually been used, has caught the public eye. Donors are also able to share news of their contribution on social media channels.
With blood donation rates in decline all over the developed world, Sweden’s blood bank service is enlisting new technology to help push back against shortages. The need for blood donors vastly outpaces the available supply and this could be a way to change that equation.
Where Else?
The Red Crescent (Kizilay) in Turkey has been pursuing a similar campaign for years. After donating blood, people have been receiving such appreciative messages from this organisation. Which no doubt is rather encouraging and motivating.
Hopefully, all the blood banks should soon opt to follow this system to encourage people more to donate blood. If we can harness this excitement in the long term, then we can really start to move the needle on the big picture. Let’s go do some good by donating blood.
Will you donate blood and help change the world? Share and Comment them on Aicrow.