America’s Blood Centers (ABC) strongly supports the bipartisan Modernizing EMS Delivery and Sustainability (MEDS) Act introduced by U.S. Representatives Richard Hudson (R-NC) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI). This legislation addresses a critical issue: the underutilization of life-saving blood products in prehospital settings, particularly in rural areas where because of extended transport times EMS blood transfusions can mean the difference between life and death.
The MEDS Act would establish a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation demonstration program. This program would evaluate a separate payment model for blood products, effectively addressing the cost barriers that currently limit their use in prehospital settings. By doing so, this legislation aims to significantly increase the availability and use of blood products in trauma situations before a patient even reaches the hospital.
Studies have shown that prehospital blood transfusions can dramatically improve survival rates for critically injured patients, with one finding up to 5% increased odds of mortality for every minute of delay in access to blood.
“ABC commends Representatives Hudson and Dingell for their leadership on this crucial issue. We urge members of the House to support this bill and members of the Senate to introduce companion legislation, which would save lives and improve patient outcomes nationwide,” said Kate Fry, CEO of America’s Blood Centers.
As the national organization representing independent community blood centers, ABC remains committed to ensuring that lifesaving blood is available whenever and wherever a patient needs it– including on the front lines of emergencies. To learn more about community blood centers’ critical role in expanding prehospital blood programs, click here.