After months of research, coordination with stakeholders and planning procedures for delivery of whole blood in the field, on September 1, 2022, the Tidewater EMS Council announced this critical new life saving program for our region. Initial roll out of the program is scheduled to take place in October in Virginia Beach with planned expansion to other localities as funding and training can be supported.
The Whole Blood Initiative (WBI) will provide whole blood to EMS agencies to administer to trauma patients in advance of being treated at a hospital. TEMS is spearheading this program because research indicates that trauma is the leading cause of death in those under 46 years of age and up to 25% of trauma deaths are potentially survivable. Given the current violence we see all across the country (shootings, stabbings, assaults), the Whole Blood Initiative offers those impacted in our community a better patient experience and outcome.
Learn more about the program and how you can support it by donating here.