Cape Fear Valley Health is among the first hospital-based EMS in North Carolina  to now carry whole blood on its ground ambulances, making blood transfusions for trauma patients more accessible. 

“We’re grateful for the work that our Mobile Integrated health care teams do. They continue to grow the services we provide for this community, which is what Cape Fear Valley Health is about,” said Michael Nagowski, CEO of Cape Fear Valley Health. “It’s about growth to meet the needs of our community. And when we talk about growth, it’s not just more emergency room visits or primary care visits, it’s about elevating the quality of the care we provide. This program centered around blood (on our ambulances) is the perfect example of this.” 

With the availability of blood on ambulances, patients suffering from traumatic injuries with significant blood loss now have a greater chance of survival. This capability allows paramedics to perform blood transfusions after traumatic events. 

“This will save lives and at the end of the day, that’s what healthcare is all about. If you’ve not had an opportunity to give blood, this is the most unique time to do that. Our Blood Center at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center is open until 5pm daily. It is critical that blood donations continue because our trauma program depends on your donations,” Nagowski added.

A ceremonial kickoff for the use of whole blood by Cape Fear Valley ambulances was held on May 16 on the helipad at the Cape Fear Valley Medical Center.