It allows trained paramedics to administer whole blood to patients at accident scenes or other emergencies
Frederick, Md (KM) A Whole Blood Program has been launched in Frederick County. It began on February 13th, 2025 following two years of planning and coordination.
Michael Cole, a battalion chief with the Division of Fire and Rescue Services, says it allows trained paramedics to administer blood to patients at the scenes of vehicle accidents or other emergencies. “Through this program, whole blood will be carried on our EMS supervisor units, EMS 901 and EMS 902; and administered by authorized personnel who have completed our comprehensive training,” he says.
In a news release announcing this program, the county says these vehicles are equipped state-of-the-art warming and transfusion technology. Division of Fire and Rescue Services Chief Tom Coe says having these blood products on hand for critically injured or critically ill patients can make a big difference. “With whole blood available right away, we can start life saving transfusions on the scene. This means less time between injury and critical care,. giving patients a better chance of survival,:” he says.
Administering whole blood occurs at the scene before these patients are taken to the hospital.
County Executive Jessica Fitzwater says this program makes Frederick County unique. “Frederick County is delighted to stand alongside other regional leaders in emergency medical care, including DC Fire and EMS, Loudon County, Montgomery County and Howard County Fire and Rescue, and bringing whole blood to the field,” she said. “This program is proven to save lives, and now it’s available right here in our own community.”
Frederick County’s Whole Blood program is run in partnership with Inova Blood Donor Services.
In a news release, the County says it’s in the planning stages in setting up a blood drive for this program, and more details will be available in “the very near future.”
By Kevin McManus