Each year, the American Red Cross – Central Plains Region recognizes one hospital within the Central Plains Region for its outstanding service and dedication to saving lives to the organization. Of the more than 100 hospitals served throughout the area, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has been awarded the region’s 2011 Hospital of the Year. Representatives from American Red Cross will present the award to the hospital’s CEO and President Kevin Miller at the Pavilion on Monday, May 7, 2012, at 10 a.m., prior to the start of the hospital’s blood drive.
As a corporate donor partner, the partnership between the American Red Cross and the Hutchinson Regional hospital community allows employees to show their community pride and demonstrate public service to others. For the past 15 years, the hospital has hosted three to four blood drives a year on the Donor Coach in which the American Red Cross would collect between 28 – 35 units of blood each visit. But, this past year, those who help to organize the hospital blood drive decided to take the blood drive to the next level. They wanted to build the blood drive so more employees could participate and would increase the potential for overall donations.
On December 6, 2011, the employees of Hutchinson Regional Medical Center hosted their first drive inside at the Pavilion. The goal of the visit was to collect 35 units, accounting for regular donors who had participated in previous bloodmobile visits, as well as for those extras who were on a “stand-by” list. As the Human Resources Department started working to promote the visit, they quickly realized that employee interest in the blood drive was growing exponentially over their expectations. It was a good problem to have. By the end of the drive, over 70 employees had participated in the blood drive, including 12 donors who were donating for the first time.
The nominations for this award were reviewed by a committee, and the hospital was chosen to receive the honor based on their continued commitment to not only serving the people of Reno County, but by their commitment to support the Region in helping to maintain a safe and adequate blood supply for all. Working in a hospital environment, the staff at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center knows that blood is truly a source of life and a special resource that comes only from someone who chooses to give of themselves.
How to Donate Blood:
Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or log on to redcrossblood.org for more information or to schedule a blood donation appointment. All blood types are needed to ensure the Red Cross maintains an adequate blood supply. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Donors must be in general good health, weigh at least 110 pounds and be at least 17 years old (16 with completed Parental Consent Form). New height and weight restrictions apply to donors 18 and younger. Visit redcrossblood.org to learn more.