Pakistan Unveils Its First Virtual Blood Bank in Lahore
Lahore: In a pioneering move, Pakistan has launched its first-ever Virtual Blood Bank Centre in Lahore, spearheaded by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
How the Virtual Blood Bank Operates
In urgent situations requiring blood, individuals can:
- Call the Emergency Helpline 15.
- Press Button 4 to connect directly with the Virtual Blood Bank Centre.
Once connected, a Punjab Safe City Officer gathers essential information such as the patient’s location and the blood type needed. The system then identifies registered blood donors in the vicinity and facilitates a conference call between the donor and the patient’s contact for swift communication and donation.
Key Features of the Virtual Blood Bank
- Integration with Helpline 15 for immediate access
- Location-based matching of donors with patients
- Active involvement of police officers in the process of donation
- 24/7 availability throughout Punjab
- Has already assisted over 14,000 patients
Daily Operations
The service manages approximately 2,500 calls daily, fulfilling around 250 urgent blood requests each day.
How to Register as a Donor
Individuals interested in donating blood can register through various methods:
- Calling the Emergency Helpline 15
- Visiting the official website of Punjab Safe City
- Going to Police Khidmat Counters located in government hospitals
CM Maryam Nawaz’s Appeal to the Public
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has urged citizens, particularly the youth, to step forward and donate blood. She highlighted that “every drop of blood can save a life,” stressing the importance of public engagement for the success of this initiative.
A Leap Towards Digital Healthcare
The launch of this virtual blood bank signifies a major advancement in the digital healthcare landscape in Punjab. It underscores the government’s commitment to modernizing health services and ensuring that essential resources are readily available to those in need.
