We’re proud to share that Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) is now the first air medical program in the U.S. to use the Delta Development Autonomous Portable Refrigeration Unit (APRU) onboard helicopters to carry whole blood for emergency transfusions.
LVHN’s MedEvac helicopters—based across eastern Pennsylvania—are joining their ground units in delivering lifesaving transfusions before patients reach the ER. What sets this program apart is not just the capability, but the tech making it possible: Delta’s compact, fully accredited, Bluetooth-enabled blood refrigerator.
“We are the first in the U.S. to successfully launch the Delta APRU blood refrigerator in helicopter EMS,” says Bryan Evans, Director, MedEvac and Critical Care Emergency Transport at LVHN.
Designed to minimize waste and maximize reliability, the Delta APRU allows whole blood to be safely stored, monitored, and ready at altitude—something traditional cooler systems can’t match. It’s the kind of innovation that transforms care in the field.
“Having blood changes the way we’re able to practice in the field. It’s evidence-based medicine,” says Dr. Jeffrey Kuklinski, LVHN MedEvac Medical Director.
We’re honored to power this next leap in prehospital care—and to support visionary partners like LVHN who never settle for good when great is within reach.
