Latest news with #America'sBloodCenters
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
America's Blood Centers and ACS Stop the Bleed Announce New National Collaboration
Collaboration aims to increase emergency preparedness and blood donation awareness nationwide Washington, DC, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- America's Blood Centers (ABC), the national organization of community-based, independent blood centers that supply 60 percent of the nation's blood supply, and the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Stop the Bleed program, a public-private initiative, today announced a new national collaboration during National Trauma Awareness Month and National STOP THE BLEED® Month. The collaboration brings together two critical aspects of trauma care – equipping individuals with life-saving skills to control severe bleeding in emergencies, while also underscoring the importance of blood donation, ensuring blood products are available when they are needed. "This collaboration between America's Blood Centers and ACS Stop the Bleed creates a vital link between immediate trauma response and long-term emergency preparedness. By educating individuals on both bleeding control techniques and the importance of blood donation, we're connecting the dots in trauma care. We're preparing people to act in the moment of crisis while also ensuring that life-saving blood is available when it's needed most. This holistic approach will significantly enhance community resilience and help save lives,' said Kate Fry, CEO of America's Blood Centers. 'Empowering the public to learn how to control bleeding as a bystander and the importance of donating blood is critically important. We are pleased to join with America's Blood Centers to bring this message to millions. Our ACS Stop the Bleed program has made great progress in training people to step in before professional help arrives. By working with America's Blood Centers, we highlight the importance of blood—encouraging more people to donate blood and teaching more people the skills they need to go from bystander to lifesaver,' said Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS, Executive Director & CEO of the ACS. 'The ACS Stop the Bleed program has set the standard for initiating immediate bleeding control at the scene. This collaborative effort with ABC will help us further our educational mission of equipping the public with lifesaving knowledge we teach through our ACS Stop the Bleed courses,' said Kenji Inaba, MD, FACS, chair of the ACS Stop the Bleed Committee. 'ABC is also part of a growing initiative with us to equip first responders with blood products so that they can initiate transfusions in the field when warranted to increase an injured person's chance for survival. That's why it's also critical for more members of the public to donate blood so that it's available to save lives. Together, these two programs have the potential to make a real difference to the critically injured bleeding patient.' The collaboration will launch a series of ongoing nationwide activities beginning during National Trauma Awareness Month and National STOP THE BLEED® Month. ABC members will provide training in ACS Stop the Bleed across their footprints, distribute special co-branded ABC-ACS Stop the Bleed kits, and organize events. In addition, ACS Stop the Bleed now features new information on blood donation and a link to ABC member center locations on its website, Blood is crucial in trauma care, often determining the line between life and death for severely injured patients. According to the U.S. Blood Donation Statistics and Public Messaging Guide, 80% of operating room deaths within 24 hours of trauma are due to severe blood loss, and hemorrhage is the primary cause of death in the first hour at trauma centers. Swift administration of blood products is vital, especially during the critical "Golden Hour" after injury. The demand is high, since a single car accident victim may need up to 50 units of red blood cells, while gunshot victims require ten times more blood on average than other trauma patients. This reality underscores the need for regular donations to maintain a strong blood supply. Data demonstrates the potential impact of this collaboration. Bloodworks Northwest, an ABC member, reported that students who completed ACS Stop the Bleed training were 32% more likely to donate blood and 24% more likely to encourage others to donate. The collaboration also aims to address critical challenges in the nation's blood supply. With nearly 22% of blood donors nationwide over age 65, engaging younger demographics is crucial. Nearly 70% of Bloodworks Northwest's Stop the Bleed course participants were between 16-24 years old, providing a unique opportunity to connect with potential young donors. Founded in 1962, America's Blood Centers is the national organization bringing together community-based, independent blood centers. Its member organizations operate more than 600 blood collection sites providing close to 60 percent of the U.S., and a quarter of the Canadian, blood supply. These blood centers serve more than 150 million people and provide blood products and services to more than 3,500 hospitals and healthcare facilities across North America. All ABC U.S. members are licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. For more information, visit The ACS Stop the Bleed program administers the premier bleeding control course and was created by leading trauma and emergency response professionals. ACS Stop the Bleed is the largest global provider of bleeding control training and is instrumental in the development of both state and national legislation in the United States to empower the public with training and access to ACS Stop the Bleed kits. For more information, visit CONTACT: Jeff Gohringer America's Blood Centers (202) 654-2901 jgohringer@ in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
America's Blood Centers Releases New Report Showing the Critical Role of Community Blood Centers in Expanding Prehospital Blood Programs
Washington, DC, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- America's Blood Centers (ABC), the national organization of community-based, independent blood centers that supply 60 percent of the nation's blood supply, today released its latest report, "A Vital Resource: Community Blood Centers & The Growth of Prehospital Blood Programs." This comprehensive report provides crucial insights into the expanding role of community blood centers in supporting prehospital blood transfusion programs across the United States. It reveals that the number of community blood centers providing blood products for prehospital use has nearly doubled between 2022 and 2024, underscoring the rapid growth and increasing importance of these life-saving programs. "Community blood centers are playing a pivotal role in the rapid expansion of prehospital blood programs across the nation. Our latest report shows an 89% increase in participating community blood centers over just two years, highlighting their commitment to expanding the availability of blood products and improving patient outcomes. As these programs continue to expand, America's Blood Centers will keep working with our members, partners, and allies to address the significant barriers that currently prevent many patients from quickly receiving the blood products they need,' said Kate Fry, CEO of America's Blood Centers. The report reveals a significant upward trend in community blood center participation in prehospital programs. In 2022, 18 centers provided blood products for prehospital use, with 7 servicing both air and ground ambulance programs. By 2024, this number had nearly doubled to 34 centers, with 18 supporting both air and ground services. The study also highlights a dramatic increase in the supply of specific blood products for prehospital use, particularly Low Titer-O Whole Blood and Type-A Liquid Plasma units. Based on annual surveys conducted from 2022 to 2024, the report offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in both the blood community and emergency medical services,underscoring the need for sustainable funding models, optimized inventory management, and enhanced donor recruitment strategies to support the growth of prehospital blood programs. The study notes that less than 2% of all emergency management systems carry blood and blood products today, indicating significant potential for future growth if current roadblocks were addressed. America's Blood Centers and its members urge Congress to modernize our nation's approach to prehospital blood transfusions by updating federal insurance program payment polices to provide sufficient reimbursement for prehospital blood transfusions including updating TRICARE payment policy to remove financial barriers and allow for broader adoption of prehospital blood transfusions which supports TRICARE's mission to improve the health of the military and their families and, in turn, helps support the security of the United States. To learn more, click here. Members of the public can urge their members of Congress to take action by clicking here. Founded in 1962, America's Blood Centers (ABC) is the national organization bringing together community-based, independent blood centers across North America. These organizations operate in more than 1,100 communities and provide close to 60 percent of the U.S. and a quarter of the Canadian blood supply. ABC member organizations serve more than 150 million people and provide blood products and services to more than 3,500 hospitals and healthcare facilities. All ABC U.S. members are 501(c)(3) organizations licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. For more information, visit Attachment "A Vital Resource: Community Blood Centers & The Growth of Prehospital Blood Programs." CONTACT: Jeff Gohringer America's Blood Centers (202) 654-2901 jgohringer@
Associated Press
17-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
America's Blood Centers Announces 2025 Awards of Excellence Winners
Washington, DC, March 17, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- America's Blood Centers (ABC), the national organization of community-based, independent blood centers that supply 60 percent of the nation's blood supply, is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Awards of Excellence. These awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations for their exceptional contributions to supporting the nation's blood supply. The awards were presented during ABC's Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C., which brought together blood center executives and national leaders to discuss critical industry topics, advocacy efforts, regulatory updates, and the latest advancements in science, medicine, and technical affairs. 'America's Blood Centers is proud to recognize these individuals and organizations for their support of our nation's blood supply. These award recipients exemplify the dedication, innovation, and passion that drive the blood community forward,' said Kate Fry, CEO of America's Blood Centers. 'Their contributions have helped expand our donor base and provide life-saving blood products to patients across the country.' The 2025 Awards of Excellence winners include: Corporation of the Year: East Penn Manufacturing: Honored for their long-standing commitment to hosting blood drives and supporting the volunteer blood community. Since 1983, East Penn has hosted over 500 blood drives, resulting in more than 13,870 blood products collected. The company's culture of giving, led by Chairman Dan Breidegam, has made them a model for corporate engagement in community blood donation efforts. Outstanding Blood Drive of the Year: Barnett San Antonio National Pan-Hellenic Council: Recognized for excellence in promoting and organizing blood donation drives within underrepresented communities. Their innovative outreach strategies, including QR code tracking and culturally sensitive education programs, have created a sustainable model for community engagement. This partnership has resulted in over 300 life-saving donations from chapter members in two years, significantly addressing the critical need for Group O blood. ABC Outstanding Public Relations Campaign: Vitalant's Social Media Team: Honored for their innovative 'Giving Starts with Learning' campaign, which significantly increased donor engagement and awareness. The campaign's success was evident in a 20% growth on Instagram and a 173% increase on TikTok, reaching millions of potential donors. Their creative approach to demystifying blood donation has set a new benchmark for digital outreach in the blood banking community. Larry Frederick Award: Ruth Osburn, Nominated by Mississippi Blood Services: Honored for her community leadership in raising awareness about blood donation over 17 years. Ruth's efforts have resulted in the collection of over 7,110 blood products, impacting more than 21,340 lives in Mississippi. Her innovative MASH-themed blood drives have become a model for engaging and educating potential donors in creative ways. Thomas F. Zuck Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Mary Townsend: Awarded for her career-long contributions to improving blood collection methods and product safety. Dr. Townsend's work on donor biovigilance has revolutionized donor care practices nationwide. Her leadership roles in various task forces and committees have shaped policies that continue to enhance the safety and efficacy of blood products. ITXM Award for Excellence in Technical Operations: Evelyn Oyler, SunCoast Blood Centers: Recognized for her 25-year career and outstanding leadership in blood banking laboratory operations. Evelyn's expertise spans from cancer centers to international medical facilities, showcasing her diverse experience in the field. Her innovative approaches to laboratory management have resulted in improved efficiency and quality control measures, setting new standards in the industry. Blood Community Advocate of the Year: Billy Weales, The Blood Center: Recognized for his exemplary leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and advocacy efforts for blood centers. Billy's innovative programs, including convalescent plasma collection and automated red cell exchange, have significantly improved patient care outcomes. His work has been instrumental in securing recognition of blood centers as essential healthcare services at both state and national levels. National Partner of the Year: GLAAD: Awarded for their commitment to educating and inspiring the next generation of blood donors. GLAAD's 'Summer of Giving' campaign reached over 4 million people, breaking down barriers and challenging long-standing misconceptions about blood donation. Their partnership has opened doors for many who previously felt excluded from the donation process, significantly expanding the donor base. Distinguished Service Award: FY24-25 Committee Chairs: This award recognizes the exceptional leadership of ABC's committee chairs. Their dedication and expertise have been instrumental in advancing evidence-based practices, shaping industry policies, and driving innovation across various aspects of blood banking. These leaders have played a crucial role in ensuring ABC remains at the forefront of blood center advocacy and operational excellence. The committee chairs include Dr. Daniela Hermelin, Chair of the ABC Blood Bulletin Committee; Kim Kinsell and Lisa Entrikin, Chairs of the ABC Bylaws Committee; Theresa Pina, Chair of the ABC Communications & National Partnerships Committee; Robert Harper, Chair of the ABC Education Committee; Harpreet Sandhu, Chair of the ABC Membership Committee, John B. Miller, Chair of the ABC Nominating Committee; Stacy Sime, Chair of the ABC Public Policy Council, Wendell Jones, Chair of the ABC Quality Regulatory Committee; and Dr. Kip Kuttner, Chair of the ABC SMT Committee. Distinguished Service Award: Leslie Maundy: This award recognizes her exemplary dedication, outstanding contributions, and unwavering professionalism to America's Blood Centers and its members. With a tenure of over two decades at the association, Ms. Maundy has risen to become the Director of Membership Services and Events, where she focuses on elevating and refining the member experience, demonstrating a profound commitment to excellence within the organization. Distinguished Service Award: Mack Benton, MJ: This award recognizes his exemplary dedication, outstanding contributions, and unwavering professionalism to America's Blood Centers and its members. Mr. Benton will celebrate his twentieth year at America's Blood Centers this year, where he has risen to become Editor of Publications and Director of Member Communications. In this role, he publishes the ABC Newsletter, which serves as a cornerstone resource for blood banking professionals, industry trailblazers, and experts worldwide and the ADRP The Drop, a monthly communication for thousands of individuals worldwide. Founded in 1962, America's Blood Centers (ABC) is the national organization bringing together community-based, independent blood centers across North America. These organizations operate in more than 1,100 communities and provide close to 60 percent of the U.S. and a quarter of the Canadian blood supply. ABC member organizations serve more than 150 million people and provide blood products and services to more than 3,500 hospitals and healthcare facilities. All ABC U.S. members are 501(c)(3) organizations licensed and regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or Health Canada. For more information, visit
