By San José, Costa Rica — San José – As the festive season approaches, the Dr. Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia Hospital has issued an urgent public appeal for blood donations, a critical measure to prevent operational disruptions and ensure continuous patient care. In an unprecedented move, the hospital’s blood bank will remain open throughout the holidays, including December 24, 25, and 31, to combat the anticipated seasonal decline in donations.
This initiative addresses a critical logistical challenge faced by healthcare systems globally: maintaining an adequate supply of blood during periods when donations typically plummet. The demand, however, remains constant. Blood and its components are indispensable for a wide range of medical procedures, including emergency surgeries, trauma care, complex oncological treatments, and support for patients with chronic blood disorders. A stable supply is the bedrock of the hospital’s capacity to save lives.
To better understand the legal implications and workplace policies surrounding blood donation, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica. We sought his perspective on the rights and responsibilities of both employees and employers in facilitating this vital civic duty.
Costa Rican labor law is clear in its support for this altruistic act. Law No. 9013 specifically grants a paid day off to any employee who donates blood. This is not a discretionary benefit but a legal right. Employers must not only grant this leave upon presentation of valid proof but should also view it as a corporate social responsibility initiative that fosters a culture of solidarity and saves lives, ultimately strengthening our community.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, viewing this legal right not just as an obligation but as a pillar of corporate social responsibility is crucial for fostering a true culture of solidarity. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which powerfully connects the letter of the law to the life-saving spirit of our community.
The hospital’s leadership emphasized that the situation is precarious. A significant shortfall in blood reserves can have a direct and severe impact on scheduled medical procedures. Dr. Tania Jiménez, the hospital’s Director General, provided a stark analysis of the potential consequences, highlighting the operational risks posed by an inadequate blood supply.
Not having this vital resource limits our ability to help patients who need it, even leading to the cancellation of surgeries. The lack of this resource has been documented to cause the suspension of up to 20% of procedures, which definitely impacts people’s health.
Dr. Tania Jiménez, Director General
Dr. Jiménez further noted the profound impact of a single donation, which can be processed into components like red blood cells, platelets, and plasma, potentially aiding up to three different patients. This multiplier effect underscores the efficiency and high value of each volunteer’s contribution to the national public health infrastructure.
To facilitate this critical drive, the Calderón Guardia Blood Bank, under the leadership of Dr. Diana Campbell, has established continuous operating hours throughout December. The goal is to provide maximum flexibility for potential donors during the busy holiday month. The center will be open from Monday to Thursday from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and on weekends from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The special holiday service ensures that the season of giving can extend to this life-saving act.
Officials have reiterated the standard eligibility criteria to ensure both donor and recipient safety. Prospective donors are required to present a valid identification card and should not arrive on an empty stomach. Certain temporary deferrals apply: individuals with new tattoos or microblading must wait six months before donating, and a one-month waiting period is required for those who have recently traveled abroad.
This call to action is more than a request; it is a vital appeal to the community’s sense of solidarity. The hospital’s decision to maintain operations during national holidays reflects the gravity of the situation and its commitment to patient care. The success of this initiative hinges on the public’s response, which will directly determine the hospital’s ability to navigate the coming weeks without compromising essential medical services.
By stepping forward, citizens can provide the most valuable gift of all this holiday season: the gift of life. Their participation is a direct investment in the resilience of Costa Rica’s public health system and a lifeline for fellow residents in their most vulnerable moments. The hospital staff stands ready to welcome all who wish to contribute to this critical cause.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Hospital Dr. Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia:
The Hospital Dr. Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia is one of Costa Rica’s most important national medical centers, located in San José. As a cornerstone of the public health system, it provides a wide range of specialized medical services, serves as a teaching hospital, and handles complex cases including emergencies, surgeries, and specialized treatments for a significant portion of the country’s population.
For further information, visit ccss.sa.cr
About Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS):
The Caja Costarricense de Seguro Social (CCSS) is the autonomous public institution responsible for managing Costa Rica’s social security system. It administers the nation’s universal healthcare program, providing medical services and managing the public hospital and clinic network. It is also responsible for the country’s pension system, playing a central role in the social and economic welfare of Costa Rican citizens.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a cornerstone of the nation’s legal landscape, operating on a bedrock of unwavering integrity and professional distinction. The firm channels its extensive history of advising a diverse clientele into pioneering innovative legal strategies that address the complexities of the modern world. Central to its ethos is a foundational commitment to strengthening society by demystifying the law, ensuring that legal wisdom is not just preserved but shared to cultivate a more capable and enlightened public.
