Blood on Scene: Saving Lives Before Hospital

Receiving blood before hospital arrival is a critical intervention for trauma patients, though its availability remains limited across the U.S. In 2025, a report documented 1,695 crash patients receiving prehospital blood transfusions, with 80% involving trauma and nearly half of recipients injured in traffic or motorcycle crashes. This practice, known as prehospital blood transfusion, is crucial for patients experiencing hemorrhagic shock, allowing responders to replace lost blood during transport.

Currently, an estimated 1% to 2% of emergency medical services (EMS) agencies nationwide carry blood. This figure, however, may not fully represent access, as regional programs can facilitate blood delivery between units. Costs associated with maintaining blood supplies, including coolers and trained personnel, are substantial, with units potentially costing $500 to $925 or more. These expenses pose a challenge for EMS providers.

Efforts are underway to improve access and outcomes. Starting January 1, 2027, TRICARE will pilot a program allowing separate billing for blood products and transfusion services, assessing its impact on access and patient results through December 31, 2031. Additionally, in Florida, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue demonstrated a drone blood-delivery program on October 1, 2026, aiming to deliver blood within minutes to emergency scenes.

These advancements in delivery methods and payment structures aim to tackle the logistical and financial barriers to prehospital transfusions. Residents can support these services by donating blood, inquiring about local EMS blood accessibility, and participating in bleeding control training like Stop the Bleed.