Lyngdoh appeals to citizens to donate blood

By A Staff Reporter 

The Health Minister of Meghalaya Dr M Ampareen Lyngdoh was part of the National Voluntary Blood Donation Day, commemorated at Nazareth Hospital, Laitumkhrah, Shillong today the 2nd October 2023.

While remembering our Freedom Fighter and Father of the nation M K Gandhiji on his birth anniversary, the speakers lauded the contributions of this great leader to the nation, hence correctly launching this program across the nation. 

Blood donation in the state of Meghalaya is as low as 18 % across the state, against a 100% National average. Communities have to come forward with an open mind to inculcate the practice of regular blood donation.

Myths and misconceptions in relation to blood donation continue to challenge blood donation in the state of Meghalaya. The average coverage is compensation through the common practice of blood replacement, which often involves a monetary exchange between the patient party and the donor, which is a bad practice.

Health Minister appealed to citizens in the state to come forward in this critical mission, so as to ensure that Ayushman Bhav and Sewa Pakhwada penetrate to every family and nook and corner in the state. 

Safe transfusion of plasma and blood for critical care is as vital as voluntary donation to ensure that citizens truly benefit from the universal coverage of 'affordable health care for all'. Valuable blood donated by all recognized blood-donating organizations to certified blood storage centers is a critical point for the state of Meghalaya.

The program lauded and recognized the contribution made by all concerned and over 45 blood donation organizations across East Khasi Hills and Ri Bhoi Districts, were felicitated. The gathering also took a pledge to a committed and dedicated responsibility for the popularization of blood donation.