Platelets can only be kept for up to five days. Fresh frozen plasma is good for one year. But, we are constantly using that so our supply is constantly turning over. Many times low blood supplies make rationing necessary. Basically what happens is that we shut down what we call elective procedures, such as certain types of plastic surgery, and transfer any blood usage to those who are in trauma or have hemorrhages, or hemophiliacs who need a transfusion to preserve their life.
Healthy people can donate blood as often as once every eight weeks.
Also, donating blood can help lower your costs if you ever need blood. It doesn't eliminate the cost. We want to be there for someone if they should ever need their blood back, said Dr. Cook. Hopefully they won't ever need it. Contracting disease is a common concern for those who are considering donating blood, but it shouldn't be.