The Midlothian Fire Department and Methodist Mansfield Medical Center have launched Ellis County’s first prehospital whole blood transfusion program — a major advancement that could also support surrounding counties during mutual-aid calls.

As part of the initiative, paramedics are now equipped to administer whole blood at the scene or en route to the hospital, supported by the Delta ICE 2L system to keep blood properly stored and ready for use. Methodist Mansfield supplies the whole blood, enabling earlier intervention for trauma and hemorrhagic shock patients.

“This innovation represents a major step forward in emergency care for our region,” said Juan Fresquez, President of Methodist Mansfield Medical Center. “Whole blood can dramatically improve survival when every minute counts.”

EMS Chief Kevin Cunningham called the program “a transformative shift” in treating critical bleeding emergencies. Dr. Thomas Goaley, the hospital’s trauma medical director, added that early transfusion helps stabilize patients faster “when seconds count.”

Learn more here: https://www.mansfieldrecord.com/articles/x-546