Urgent Call for Blood Donations in the Canary Islands
The proper functioning of hospitals across the Canary Islands hinges on a crucial but simple act: blood donation. The General Directorate of Blood Donation and Haemotherapy, part of the Canary Health Service (SCS), has issued an urgent reminder to the public about the need for a steady flow of donations to maintain healthcare services.
Blood and its derivatives cannot be manufactured in labs; the only way to ensure supply is through altruism. Health officials stress the importance of making blood donation a regular habit, encouraging people to donate at least twice a year. These donations support daily surgical procedures, complex cancer treatments, transplant viability, and responses to unexpected medical emergencies, significantly increasing survival chances for critically ill patients.
To make donations more accessible, the Canary Government has restructured its logistics for the upcoming week, launching various mobile units to visit different communities while ensuring that fixed donation sites across all islands are fully operational.
Essential Requirements for Donors
Potential donors must meet basic medical criteria: they should be aged between 18 and 65, though first-time donors must be under 60. Additionally, donors must weigh over 50kg and be in good general health. Women are advised not to be pregnant.
For any medical or logistical questions, donors can contact the dedicated helpline at 900 234 061 or visit the informative website efectodonacion.com.
Blood Donation Locations in Tenerife
Donation activities in Tenerife will kick off this weekend and continue through various commercial and institutional venues:
| Type | Location | Days and Times | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile | Multicentro El Trompo (La Orotava) | Weekend: 9:15-13:30 & 16:15-20:30; Mon-Fri: 9:15-13:30 & 17:15-20:30 | Continuous donation point |
| Mobile | Centro Comercial Añaza | Monday: 9:15-13:45 & 15:45-20:30 | |
| Mobile | Centro Comercial Meridiano | Wednesday: 9:45-14:00 & 16:45-20:30 | |
| Mobile | San Juan de la Rambla | Monday: San José (next to Town Hall) 10:00-13:00; Plaza Rosario Oramas 16:30-20:15 | |
| Fixed | Santa Cruz Headquarters | Mon-Fri: 8:15-20:30 (except holidays) |
Blood Donation Locations in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria will enhance its efforts by collaborating with shopping centres and public institutions, including the General Directorate of Traffic, to maximise donations:
| Type | Location | Days and Times | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile | Phoenix Fitness Club (Jinámar) | Weekend: 9:00-13:00 | |
| Fixed | LPGC Headquarters (Alfonso XIII) | Mon-Fri: 9:15-20:30 (except holidays) | Special access for donors |
Donation Efforts in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote
Fuerteventura will maintain its usual hospital operations and organise specific donation events in commercial areas, while Lanzarote will offer mobile donation units at several locations.
Coverage in La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro
These western islands will ensure donation services through fixed points in their main hospitals, operating during various times throughout the week to accommodate potential donors.
For further details and a complete schedule of donation sites, please visit the official health service websites.
