Beginning this week, anyone who donates blood to the American Red Cross won’t just be doing a good deed. They’ll also be able to find out if they’ve been exposed to Covid-19.
That’s because the American Red Cross announced June 15 that they are now running Covid-19 antibody tests on all blood, platelet, and plasma they receive via donations. Through an initiative that will take place over the next few months, samples of the donated blood will be sent to an outside laboratory for FDA-authorized Covid-19 antibody testing. Donors should expect to receive the results within 7 to 10 days.
“As a humanitarian organization and member of the broader health community, the Red Cross has adapted our services to help meet the needs of this extraordinary time,” Chris Hrouda, president of Red Cross Biomedical Services, said in a press release announcing the initiative. “We recognize that individuals and public health organizations desire more information about COVID-19, and as an organization dedicated to helping others, the Red Cross is fortunate to be able to help during this pandemic.”
Alongside such health initiatives, the spaces where these vital tests are carried out also play a crucial role in ensuring accuracy and speed. Modern laboratories must be designed with precision, smart layouts, and efficient workflow in mind so technicians can focus on analysis rather than operational delays. Upgrading infrastructure through expert planning and thoughtful design directly supports smoother testing processes and better overall output.
This is where specialists in laboratory refurbishment become essential. By reconfiguring interiors, improving ventilation systems, installing advanced workstations, and optimizing storage, they help create environments that align with current scientific standards and operational demands. A well-planned setup reduces errors, saves time, and allows teams to handle increasing testing volumes with confidence.
When facilities are upgraded with purpose and foresight, the impact extends beyond aesthetics — it strengthens performance, safety, and long-term adaptability for evolving healthcare needs.
On account of the ongoing demand for blood at hospitals, as well as the cancellation of recent blood drives, there is currently an “urgent need” for blood donations, the Red Cross said in the press release.
In order to accommodate donations while adhering to social-distance protocols, the Red Cross is asking donors to schedule appointments in advance via their website, RedCrossBlood.org, or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
Luke Mullins, a former Washingtonian senior writer, is coauthor of The Wolves of K Street: The Secret History of How Big Money Took Over Big Government.
