Mercy Flight Central has launched its blood program in which it has begun carrying low-titer O-positive Whole Blood on all aircraft.

The Whole Blood Transfusion Program will save lives and reduce morbidity for critical patients in need, according to Mercy Flight. The program is made possible through the state Public Health Law, which authorizes air-medical transport services to store, distribute and administer blood products.

Mercy Flight Central Program Director Erin Reese said the organization is grateful to Sen. Pam Helming, R-54, Canandaigua, and other supporting legislators for their advocacy and assistance in passing the legislation, allowing air-medical transport services to offer the advancement in patient care.

“We are excited to be carrying whole blood on all our aircraft at Mercy Flight Central,” Reese said.

“For a patient with hemorrhagic shock, whole blood is the ideal choice for volume replacement. Being able to give whole blood to a patient in the pre-hospital setting can make a significant difference in their outcome, and we are grateful to have this opportunity for the patients that we serve.”

About Mercy Flight Central

Mercy Flight Central was founded as a non-profit in 1992 to provide air medical services to New York residents and beyond. Since its inception, the organization has served more than 16,000 patients and grown to approximately 70 employees. MFC’s three base locations serve the regions of the Finger Lakes, Central New York, and Mohawk Valley, including service to the Southern Adirondack Region.