Saving Lives in the Ozarks: Ozarks Healthcare and Community Blood Center of the Ozarks ask Community to host Blood Drive Dec. 28

Ozarks Healthcare and the Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO), sole supplier of blood, platelets, and plasma to patients at 44 area healthcare facilities, will host a blood drive on Wednesday, Dec. 28, from noon until 6 p.m. at the Willard Hunter Classroom in the Ozarks Healthcare Parkway Center at 1211 Porter Wagoner Blvd. in West Plains.

Donors will receive a free “Saving Lives in the Ozarks” t-shirt while supplies last. All donors will be entered into a weekly drawing for a chance to win a $1,000 gas card.

CBCO donors provide all the blood for patients at Ozarks Healthcare, as well as dozens of healthcare facilities across the Ozarks. Giving blood can make a positive impact in others’ lives. Each donation can help save the lives of up to three people in the Ozarks.

Before the blood drive, donors are asked to take a few steps to ensure that donations operate smoothly on the day of the drive:

1. Drink plenty of water or juice the night and morning before you donate.

2. Eat a well-balanced meal around 2-3 hours before giving.

3. Bring your photo ID - Photo ID is now required for all donors.

To help avoid wait times, appointments are strongly encouraged. Donors can schedule an appointment at https://www.cbco.org/donate-blood/ or by calling 417-227-5006.

Ozarks Healthcare is a system of care encompassing primary care and specialty clinics, along with complete rehabilitation, behavioral healthcare, and home health services. While the 114-bed acute care hospital cares for more than 5,400 admissions, the entire health system has more than 364,000 patient visits annually in South Central Missouri and Northern Arkansas. For more information about Ozarks Healthcare, visit www.OzarksHealthcare.com.