What is a blood replacement credit?

A blood replacement credit is given to a donor when giving blood. This blood replacement credit can be applied to a patient's hospital account to offset the replacement deposit fee charged when the blood is used. The blood replacement credit is approximately $20 and when applied to a patient's account, will result in a reduction in the patient's blood charge for the same amount.

Why do some blood banks use the blood replacement credit system?

Blood banks using the blood replacement credit system see this as motivation to replace blood used. It motivates donors to give blood for possible future needs or for transferring to someone else needing replacement. In the credit system, people supporting the blood needs of the community receive a financial benefit should they need blood in the future.

Do all blood banks use the blood replacement credit system?

No, not all blood banks operate under the blood replacement credit system. Those not operating under the blood replacement credit system, such as the American Red Cross and several blood banks in Florida, do not issue blood credits at the time of donation nor do they accept credits for patient usage. Should a donor desire to transfer credit to an area not on the credit system, direct patient assistance is possible.

If I need a transfusion, is the blood free?

All blood centers have a "processing fee". The processing fee represents the charge made to a patient to cover the cost of the blood bank to recruit, collect, process, store and deliver a unit of blood or blood components.