Officials at Miller-Keystone Blood Center (MKBC) recently announced the establishment of its “Hope for a Match” Rare Donor Program. The program ensures that the right blood type is available at the right time for transfusion patients identified as having rare blood types.

A rare donor is one who has produced red cell antibodies and requires a more specific match than simply just A, B or O types.

For example, the best match for chronically ill patients in need of regular blood transfusions will likely come from donors of the same ethnic background, as patients battling life-threatening illnesses are less likely to have reactions to blood donated by someone within their own ethnic group or similar genetics. Use of genetically matched blood products will decrease the risk of complications related to transfusion treatment.

The program launch date has been postponed.