Canadian Blood Services has issued an urgent call for blood, but some would-be donors have been turned away.

Canadian Blood Services will not accept any donor who shows up to give blood, they much meet the eligibility criteria.

For instance, Linda, who asked that her last name not be used, wanted to donate but was informed because she is 67-years-old she needs a doctor’s note.

Linda said “they said I needed to get a doctor’s certificate, a form filled out to declare that I’m in good health”.

Linda said she will do it, even though she doesn’t feel she needs to, she said “well I feel like I’m in good health, but I did it years ago, but I’ll get the doctor’s form filled out and do it next time.”

There other exclusion criteria outlined by Canadian Blood Services.

The current blood shortage is the worst since 2008. 

In the time since 2008, Canadian Blood Services has closed down at least five mobile clinics in Alberta.

Canadian Blood Services says it will extend hours and add beds in larger centres to try reduce the blood shortage.