HATFIELD, PA (March 11, 2025) – VMSC Emergency Medical Services (VMSC EMS) has introduced a
lifesaving advancement in emergency medical care, becoming the first EMS agency in the region to carry
whole blood for pre-hospital transfusions. This capability ensures that critically ill and injured patients in North
Penn and Indian Valley have access to whole blood transfusion. Only 1% of EMS agencies in the United
States have this capability.
Pre-hospital whole blood transfusions have been proven to increase survival rates by up to four times
compared to IV fluids alone. Studies have shown that this intervention can reduce mortality from hemorrhagic
shock by nearly 30%. By making whole blood readily available on ambulances, VMSC paramedics can now
provide this critical treatment at the scene of an emergency—helping to save lives before patients reach the
hospital.
American college
A Historic Milestone for EMS
On March 10, 2025, VMSC hosted a launch event at its Hatfield headquarters, welcoming over 150 local, state,
and federal officials to witness this milestone in emergency medicine. The event featured a live whole blood
transfusion simulation, demonstrating how this groundbreaking capability will improve patient outcomes.
Speakers included:
- PA State Representative Steve Malagari
- Dr. Dan Bledsoe, PA State EMS Medical Director
- Brian Sweeney, President, Jefferson Health North
- Shane Wheeler, CEO, VMSC
- Dr. Ryan Overberger, Medical Director, VMSC
- Dr. Shraddha Babariya, Executive Medical Director, American Red Cross
“This is the largest advancement in pre-hospital emergency care in the last 30 years,” said Shane Wheeler,
CEO of VMSC Emergency Medical Services. “By equipping our paramedics with the ability to provide whole
blood transfusions, we are giving patients the best possible chance at survival when time is critical.” change
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Dr. Alvin Wang (Regional EMS Director) emphasized the urgency of early transfusion, stating, “For every
minute of delay in pre-hospital transfusion, the mortality rate increases by 2%.”
This program was made possible through partnerships with Jefferson Health, the American Red Cross, and a
dedicated team of medical and EMS professionals who have worked tirelessly to bring this initiative to the
region.
Dr. Shraddha Babariya (Executive Medical Director at the American Red Cross) underscored the impact of this
advancement, stating, “This advancement empowers first responders to provide trauma patients with a better
chance of survival before they even reach the hospital, especially when every second counts.”
How the Program Works - Blood is stored in specialized coolers at 1-6°C with continuous temperature monitoring to ensure quality
located in VMSC’s Paramedic Responder units. - Highly trained paramedics are equipped to administer blood transfusions following strict safety
protocols. - Unused blood is rotated back to hospital blood banks, ensuring minimal waste and maximum efficiency.
- The program reduces the need for in-hospital blood transfusions by up to 40%, improving resource
availability for other patients.
