Lassen County, CA, Sierra Medical Services Alliance’s (SEMSA) air medical helicopter program, in partnership with the American Red Cross, has launched a whole blood initiative enabling both SEMSA Air helicopters to carry two units of specially tested and processed whole blood for critically injured and ill patients experiencing significant blood loss. SEMSA is the only Air Medical program in the region to carry whole blood.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of EMS reports that pre-hospital blood transfusions significantly reduce mortality among severely injured patients. Within the first week of implementation, SEMSA administered whole blood to a critically ill medical patient, demonstrating early impact. “The ability to transfuse whole blood will allow SEMSA to bridge the gap between point of injury/hemorrhage and definitive care for our most critical patients suffering trauma or life-threatening hemorrhage in rural areas or outlying medical facilities,” said Brock Boscovich, MD, SEMSA Medical Director. “Years of trauma research stemming from military casualty care promises this strategy will significantly improve survival and overall outcomes for the patients that we serve.”
“SEMSA Air is excited to be one of the first air medical programs in our area able to carry whole blood and provide this lifesaving service to the rural area we serve,” said
Alan Dobrowolski, RN, Chief Flight Nurse. “Having blood will increase our capabilities and allow us to better help patients on their worst day.”
Each helicopter is equipped with state-of-the-art coolers that safely store blood supplies for up to three weeks. All SEMSA Air medical personnel have completed extensive training on indications and safe administration procedures.
Whole blood provides red blood cells, platelets, plasma, and clotting factors in a single unit, supporting superior outcomes for patients suffering severe blood loss. Programs across the U.S. report improved survival when blood is delivered early, particularly in rural areas with longer transport times and emphasize coordinated training, temperature-controlled storage, and strong partnerships with regional blood banks to sustain supply. The 30-day survival rate for patients in hemorrhagic shock has been shown to improve substantially when whole blood is administered prehospital.
About SEMSA
Sierra Medical Services Alliance (SEMSA) is a leading provider of emergency medical services committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care across rural and underserved communities
SEMSA Air Launches Whole Blood Program to Improve Survival for Rural Patients
