Media Contact: Lily McCormick
Regional Communications Manager
lily.mccormick@redcross.org | 385-584-7610
SALT LAKE CITY (Feb. 12, 2025) — This week, during National Phlebotomists Recognition Week, the American Red Cross of Utah is recognizing its phlebotomists, the people who keep blood donation appointments running smoothly. Across Utah, more than 200 Red Cross phlebotomists work at blood drives and donation centers every day, helping donors give blood safely and comfortably.
Phlebotomists are often the first Red Cross staff donors meet. They walk donors through the process, collect donations, watch for donor reactions, and help ensure each unit is properly handled so it can reach patients who need transfusions. Nationally, the Red Cross relies on thousands of phlebotomists as it supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood supply.
“The blood donation experience depends on skill, care and trust,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Our phlebotomists set the tone for every appointment. They help donors feel at ease, keep the process safe and make sure blood is available for patients every day.”
Meeting the Nation’s Blood Needs
National Phlebotomists Recognition Week, Feb. 9-13, 2026, comes at a critical time, as weather-related cancellations and flu season continue to disrupt blood drives across the country. Since the start of 2026, more than 800 Red Cross blood drives have been cancelednationwide, resulting in more than 20,000 uncollected blood and platelet donations.
Blood drives in Utah have not been affected by the weather disruptions making donations collected here important in supporting hospitals nationwide.
Celebrating Phlebotomists’ Vital Role
Phlebotomists Recognition Week, established by the American Medical Technologists (AMT), highlights the essential role phlebotomists play in patient care and lab efficiency. The Red Cross employs hundreds of phlebotomists in Utah and thousands nationwide, whose expertiseand compassion ensure lifesaving blood products reach patients in need.
How to Donate Blood
The Red Cross encourages eligible donors to schedule a blood donation appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcross.org/GiveBlood or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). All who come to give blood between Jan. 26 and Feb. 28, 2026, will receive a $20 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Heart.
All blood types are needed, and the Red Cross continues to urge donors with type O, A negative, and B negative to make an appointment.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
