West Virginia becomes first state for blood administration protocols of whole blood on ambulances

Danielle Sandler
·2 min read

CHARLESTON, WV (WVNS) — West Virginia recently became the first state in the country to be able to provide and administer whole blood on ambulances.

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Due to this, the Department of Health (DH) is currently providing this service to residents in two different counties. In November of 2023, Cabell County EMS started offering this service, and then in March 2024, Harrison County followed after.

“For patients experiencing significant blood loss from a trauma, every second matters. I’m pleased to see West Virginia leading the country in this effort that will undoubtedly save lives,” said Cabinet Secretary Sherri Young, DO, FAAFP, MBA.

According to Joseph Ratliff, the Department of Health’s Director of the Office of Emergency Medical Services, said that the state has offered education throughout the state to EMS organizations that will bring blood products to these counties for patients in need of blood.

“Bleeding is often an early cause of death when it comes to trauma patients, but it doesn’t have to be. I’m pleased to see these two counties stepping up to answer the call by providing this lifesaving service to residents,” said Ratliff.

Ratliff also explained that the blood being carried on these ambulances are trained to do blood transfusions for those in need.

“Administering whole blood to trauma patients within the golden hour of a trauma can significantly improve their chances of survival. Whole blood transfusions will help restore a patient’s blood volume and clotting function much faster than traditional blood component therapy,” added Ratliff.

Blood donations can also be brought to other parts of the Mountain State as well. If a donor would like to schedule an appointment, they can download the Red Cross Blood Donor Ass and use Rapid Pass to speed up the donation process and fill out the questionnaire needed. They can also track their donation as well.

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If you would like to become a donor and donate, you can make an appointment at RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

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