In our monthly spotlight, we’re highlighting the remarkable innovations and community impacts of America’s Blood Centers members across North America. These developments show the crucial importance of community blood centers and their role as hubs of innovation, research, and community engagement in today’s healthcare landscape:
Kentucky Blood Center: Innovative Prehospital Blood Program
Kentucky Blood Center (KBC) has partnered with several emergency medical services (EMS) groups including Georgetown/Scott County Emergency Medical Services, Jessamine County Emergency Medical Services, Lexington Fire and Emergency Services, and Madison County Emergency Medical Services to implement a lifesaving prehospital blood program. Starting June 1st, EMS groups will carry whole blood in their vehicles, enabling rapid response to life-threatening conditions en route to hospitals. This initiative is expected to improve patient survival rates through on-scene pre-hospital blood transfusions. Dr. Dennis Williams, KBC Medical Director, states: “Partnering with these local EMS groups to enhance patient outcomes is a win-win for everyone.” To learn more about the importance of expanding the use of blood in ambulances, click here.
BioBridge Global Launches First-of-its-Kind Mobile Leukapheresis Center
BioBridge Global, the parent company of ABC-member South Texas Blood and Tissue, has unveiled the first of its kind Mobile Leukapheresis Center to address the growing demand for advanced therapies. This state-of-the-art mobile unit, designed to collect white blood cells crucial for these advanced treatments, brings collection capabilities directly to patients and clinical trial participants. By eliminating geographical barriers and reducing travel burdens, the Mobile Leukapheresis Center aims to enhance patient access and accelerate the development of life-saving therapies.
Community Blood Center of the Ozarks: Expanding Capacity
The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks (CBCO) has opened a new donor center in Joplin, doubling its capacity from 4 to 8 donor beds. This expansion enables the collection of more blood donations at one time, helping to meet the local need of 200 blood donations per day. CBCO’s Michelle Teter explains that the move was specifically designed to expand their ability to collect more blood donations simultaneously, benefiting the local hospitals they service.
LifeSouth Community Blood Centers: New Tampa Donor Center
LifeSouth Community Blood Centers recently opened a new donor center in Tampa, Florida. This expansion demonstrates their ongoing commitment to serving local communities and partnering with healthcare providers. The center’s opening was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by representatives from local hospitals, the Chamber of Commerce, community leaders, and blood donors. Kim Kinsell, LifeSouth President and CEO, highlighted the importance of their partnership with Moffitt Cancer Center, stating, “We value our partnership with Moffitt and will remain working together to help save lives.”
These innovations demonstrate that America’s Blood Centers members are not just blood collectors, but innovators whose work enhances patient care and shapes the future of healthcare.