ST. PAUL — American Red Cross blood and platelet donors can now help save lives in less time by using the new Red Cross RapidPass online health history system.

RapidPass streamlines the donation experience by allowing donors to complete pre-donation reading and health history questions online from the convenience of a computer at home or work. It became available to donors locally on Oct. 26, and is expected to reduce the time donors with a RapidPass spend at blood drives by up to 15 minutes.

“When people come to donate, they are giving more than blood or platelets – they are also generously giving their time,” said Sue Thesenga, communications manager of North Central Blood Services Region, in a press release. “RapidPass is a simple, convenient way for Red Cross donors to make the most of their time while helping save lives.”

To get a RapidPass on the day of a blood donation, donors should visit redcrossblood.org/rapidpass, complete all of the questions, then print their RapidPass or show it on a mobile device when they come to donate.

Though an appointment isn’t needed to use RapidPass, donors are encouraged to make an appointment by using the Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS to further expedite their donation.