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County approves trauma grant to start prehospital whole‑blood transfusions
Summary
Henry County Fire Rescue will accept a Georgia trauma commission equipment grant of $24,879.54 to start prehospital whole‑blood administration on quick‑response vehicles; staff said the program could save lives, expects about 45 administrations in year one, and will require paramedic credentialing and hospital partnerships.
The board approved acceptance of a FY26 Georgia Trauma Commission trauma‑equipment grant of $24,879.54 to support Henry County Fire Rescue's rollout of prehospital whole‑blood transfusions.
Presenters explained why whole blood is being carried and administered in the field, citing improved survivability and lessons from military and urban trauma care. "Severe bleeding is a leading cause of preventable death after trauma and we can stop that in the field," the presenter said while describing equipment (blood coolers, LifeFlow rapid infuser and warmers), storage temperature monitoring and the plan to carry low‑titer O‑positive whole blood on quick‑response vehicles staffed by paramedics. Staff said blood will be supplied through a hospital partnership (Piedmont Henry Medical Center), paramedics will receive post‑licensure credentialing under the state Office of EMS and Trauma, and the county anticipates roughly 45 administrations in the first year based on regional data.
A survivor testimonial included in the presentation described a field transfusion that the speaker credited with saving his life; presenters urged the community to donate blood to sustain supply. The board voted to accept the grant and launch the program; staff noted a small FY27 budgetary impact for pharmaceuticals and that training and ongoing agreements would follow.
