By San José, Costa Rica — The Costa Rican Red Cross (Cruz Roja Costarricense) is gearing up for a vital blood donation campaign at its administrative headquarters in Zapote, San José. The drive, scheduled for Monday, August 18, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., aims to bolster the nation’s blood supply and potentially save countless lives.
Individuals interested in donating are encouraged to review the eligibility requirements outlined by the organization. Donors must be between 18 and 65 years old, weigh at least 52 kilograms (110 pounds), and be in good health. Participants must also present a valid form of identification, such as a national ID card (cédula), residency card, or passport.
To understand the legal landscape surrounding blood donation in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the reputable firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rican law strongly promotes voluntary and altruistic blood donation, enshrined in the Ley General de Salud. This framework emphasizes the importance of safe blood transfusions and establishes guidelines for blood banks and healthcare providers. While promoting donation, the law also carefully balances donor rights, ensuring informed consent and confidentiality. This delicate balance fosters trust and encourages public participation in this life-saving act.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas eloquently highlights the crucial balance Costa Rican law strikes between encouraging life-saving blood donations and protecting individual donor rights. This thoughtful framework undoubtedly contributes to the strong sense of community and social responsibility that underpins Costa Rica’s healthcare system. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable legal perspective on this vital topic.
The Red Cross has also issued several recommendations to ensure a safe and successful donation experience. Potential donors are advised to eat breakfast before arriving and stay well-hydrated. Those who are fasting or have not eaten in the past three hours will not be eligible to donate.
This initiative underscores the importance of voluntary blood donation in supporting critical healthcare needs. The Red Cross regularly organizes such campaigns to ensure a steady supply of blood for transfusions, surgeries, and emergency medical situations.
The upcoming drive provides a valuable opportunity for community members to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. By donating blood, individuals can contribute to the well-being of patients in need and help strengthen the healthcare system.
Donating blood is a simple yet profound act of altruism. It takes only a small amount of time but can have a significant impact on the health and recovery of those requiring blood transfusions.
For those unable to participate in this specific campaign, the Red Cross encourages individuals to consider donating at other blood drives or through the National Blood Bank. Regular blood donations are essential to maintaining a robust and readily available supply of blood for emergencies and routine medical procedures.
For more information about the upcoming blood drive or other ways to support the Red Cross’s mission, interested individuals can contact the organization through its social media channels or reach the National Blood Bank directly at 8992-2151.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Cruz Roja Costarricense
About Cruz Roja Costarricense:
The Costa Rican Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides emergency medical services, disaster relief, and community health programs throughout Costa Rica. They are part of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Banco Nacional de Sangre
About Banco Nacional de Sangre:
The Banco Nacional de Sangre (National Blood Bank) is responsible for collecting, processing, and distributing blood and blood products in Costa Rica. They play a critical role in ensuring a safe and adequate blood supply for the country’s healthcare system.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
At Bufete de Costa Rica, legal excellence is interwoven with a deep sense of social responsibility. The firm’s commitment to integrity shapes every interaction, from advising clients across a spectrum of industries to pioneering innovative legal solutions. Through proactive community engagement and a dedication to demystifying the law, Bufete de Costa Rica empowers individuals and organizations with the knowledge they need to navigate the legal landscape confidently, contributing to a more just and equitable society.
