Mountain State Times

The state of West Virginia has made strides in public health, with Monongalia County becoming the third county to join the Whole Blood Program. This initiative, spearheaded by the West Virginia Department of Health’s Office of Emergency Medical Services, seeks to enhance life-saving medical services for those in critical need.

Since November 2023, Cabell County EMS has led the way by providing whole blood transfusions in the field. This placed West Virginia at the forefront as the first state to implement comprehensive statewide protocols for administering whole blood in ambulances. Harrison County subsequently joined in March 2024.

Dr. Arvin Singh, the Secretary of Health, stated, “Seeing Monongalia County join these efforts is incredible, especially considering its population. Morgantown is a major city here, serving as a junction point for residents, college students, and travelers alike. It’s been proven that this program is successful in saving lives, and it's wonderful to see more counties join this cause. We hope to one day have whole blood in every ambulance across the state.”

Highlighting the program's achievements, Joseph Ratliff, Director of the Office of Emergency Medical Services, emphasized the importance of prehospital intervention. “Lives have already been saved because of this program, and that’s all we can hope for. A lot of times, EMS personnel drop patients off at the hospital questioning whether that patient will live or die once they go through those doors. The Whole Blood Program can help answer some of those questions.”

Whole blood transfusions play a crucial role in stabilizing trauma patients who suffer from severe bleeding, a leading cause of trauma-related deaths. The practice helps restore blood volume and enhances clotting function, providing vital support before patients reach the hospital.

The Department of Health has ensured the success of the program through extensive education and training for EMS personnel across the state. The program's expansion and continued success rely heavily on blood donations. The department encourages West Virginians to contribute by donating blood through the Red Cross.

The public can schedule a blood donation appointment via the Red Cross Blood Donor App or by visiting RedCrossBlood.org. Additional information or scheduling can also be done by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).