New blood bank on way for Preah Vihear
HOPE dawns for improved healthcare in Preah Vihear province with the construction of a brand-new blood bank facility. This first-of-its-kind establishment, adhering to the same high standards as the National Blood Transfusion Centre (NBTC) in Phnom Penh, will significantly improve blood storage and encourage lifesaving donations.
Spearheaded by governor Kim Rithy, the project directly addresses the historical challenge of limited blood storage within a cramped laboratory.
Preah Vihear’s provincial health director Kuong Lo said on February 11 that the modern facility, separate from the lab yet conveniently located within the hospital premises, will significantly ease the donation process for the community
Encompassing 8m x 16m, the building mirrors the NBTC’s layout, featuring dedicated areas for blood storage, donor waiting and post-donation refreshments. A unique touch – a space for souvenir photos – aims to incentivise and celebrate selfless acts of giving, he said.
“The new facility serves a dual purpose: securing life-saving blood for hospital patients and offering a convenient space for community members to donate,” he added.
Lo did not discuss the budget details, but confirmed that the blood bank’s construction is underway and on track for completion by early May.
“The completion of the new building signifies a leap forward in our ability to serve the community. With its dedicated storage facilities, all blood donated will finally have a permanent home. This translates directly to lives saved, as concerns about blood shortages become a thing of the past. It is a testament to our commitment to public health and a cause for celebration,” he said.
He noted that the province maintains a steady blood supply through regular donations from volunteers across the region, with towns and districts contributing around 100 bags per month.
The new facility officially broke ground on February 5.
At a recent blood donation drive themed “My Blood for You, Your Blood for Me,” NBTC president Sok Po delivered a stark message, saying Cambodia faces a constant blood shortage.
He said a new bag of blood is needed every five minutes. Daily demand in Phnom Penh reaches 300-400 bags, and the nation requires 140,000 annually.
Po dispelled concerns about blood donation, emphasising its safety and highlighting the profound impact it has on recipients’ lives. He stressed that donating not only harms no one, but delivers life-saving benefits to those in need.