The Blood Matters Blog ·

    Keeping Our Blood Supply Safe

    OBI tests every blood donation for hepatitis B & C, HIV, syphilis and more — aligning with CDC guidance to keep patients safe. Donate with confidence.

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    Blood testing in lab

    Here at OBI, our mission goes beyond collecting lifesaving donations — we're committed to providing a safe, reliable blood supply for patients in our community. With thorough testing and careful screening, safety remains at the core of everything we do.

    How OBI Keeps Blood Safe

    Every time someone donates blood, we conduct comprehensive testing for infectious diseases — including hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, syphilis and more. In the past decade alone, we've performed over 14.6 million hepatitis tests. Even repeat blood donors are tested every single time. This consistent, rigorous approach ensures no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of safety.

    RELATED: Where Your Blood Goes After Donating

    Hepatitis

    Hepatitis refers to inflammation of the liver — most commonly caused by viruses like Hepatitis A, B and C.

    • Hepatitis A is spread through contaminated food or water
    • Hepatitis B and C are transmitted through blood and bodily fluids

    Often times, people with Hepatitis B or C show no symptoms at all until significant liver damage has occurred. If caught early, hepatitis can be effectively treated and long-term consequences avoided.

    Donated with Us? Check Your Test Results.

    Public Health Effort

    In recent years, public health leaders have advocated for increased hepatitis screenings, shifting toward a universal approach rather than targeting "high-risk" groups. The CDC now recommends that all adults should be screened for Hepatitis B and C at least once in their lives.

    A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, highlighted the value of this new approach, finding that universal hepatitis C screening was more effective than targeted testing in emergency department patients.

    OBI's Aligned Mission

    We're proud to be part of this broader public health movement. Every blood donation is tested for Hepatitis B and C, thus allowing blood donors to meet the latest CDC recommendations.

    Through this routine testing, OBI plays a pivotal role in helping prevent the spread of hepatitis in Oklahoma and throughout the region.

    What We Test For

    Confidentiality

    We recognize and understand the sensitive nature of your health information. That's why OBI follows strict confidentiality protocols. If a blood donation yields a positive test result, only the donor is notified and information isn't shared without consent.

    Help Your Community — Safely

      Now that you know a little bit more about the value we place on testing to ensure safety for both donor and recipient, we hope you consider donating with us!

      Schedule Your Donation Today