Who knows your blood type in an emergency?

About 50% of Australians know their blood type. Knowing your blood type is important. In an emergency, say, if you have an accident, injury or illness where you need a blood transfusion, you want to be sure that your body will accept the blood you are given. In other words, you need to receive blood that is compatible with your own.

There are eight main blood types with the most common being O+.

If you know your blood type, upload it to your Health and Dental Chest in Secure My Treasures. Do yourself a favour, add the name of a trustee who will access your blood type in an emergency and give it to your treating doctors.

Of course, if you don’t know your blood type, there is one great way to find out….give blood and help save a life.

Find your nearest donor centre here: https://my.donateblood.com.au/app/appointments/location

Find out more:
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood. Blood types. https://www.lifeblood.com.au/blood/learn-about-blood/blood-types  (Accessed 28 October 2024)