Our Blood Institute and Velico Collaboration
In an exciting development for emergency medical services, Our Blood Institute (OBI), recognized as the sixth-largest independent blood center, has officially joined Velico's Blood Center Education Program (BCEP). This initiative presents OBI with a unique chance to immerse itself in the practical applications of the FrontlineODP™ system, designed for the efficient spray drying of plasma.
Understanding the Blood Center Education Program
BCEP is structured as a collaborative platform, enabling strategic partnerships within the blood community. By directly interacting with the FrontlineODP™ technology, OBI aims to assess how this innovative system can be incorporated into everyday blood component productions. Their insight will be vital for refining the system's operational capabilities and addressing commissioning challenges.
Importance of Timely Blood Transfusion
This relationship highlights a shared dedication to enhancing emergency preparedness and promoting educational opportunities in the critical realm of prehospital blood transfusion. Richard Meehan, President and CEO of Velico, emphasized that the FrontlineODP™ is expected to significantly bolster the US blood supply, ultimately serving as a potentially life-saving tool for emergency responders.
Executive Insights on the Partnership
Dr. John Armitage, President and CEO of OBI, articulated the essence of their mission, asserting, "Saving lives is at the heart of what we do at OBI. In emergencies, time is of the essence, especially for patients facing heavy bleeding. We are excited to support the advancement of this revolutionary technology that can change the game for EMS agencies and military responders in the field before hospital care is available."
About FrontlineODP™ Technology
The FrontlineODP™ system has been developed to address the alarming rates of preventable deaths caused by hemorrhage following traumatic incidents. There is a robust emphasis by trauma surgeons, emergency medical professionals, and governmental entities to tackle this issue, positioning Velico at the forefront of this response.
Benefits of the FrontlineODP™ System
This innovative plasma technology offers a multitude of benefits. Stored in flexible plastic, FrontlineODP™ can be quickly rehydrated with sterile water, allowing it to be ready for transfusion within approximately 2.5 minutes. Unlike traditional plasma products that require refrigeration, FrontlineODP™ remains effective at room temperature, thereby ensuring availability in diverse environments—ranging from emergency rooms to remote medical facilities and battlefields.
This system is specifically designed for cases of medical and traumatic hemorrhage when conventional plasma is inaccessible or impractical for use, thereby filling a critical gap in emergency situations.
The Development Process and Support
At present, the FrontlineODP™ System is undergoing extensive investigation and has not yet received FDA approval. The development of this groundbreaking initiative has been significantly supported by federal funding from the Department of Health and Human Services and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response.
About Velico
Velico is devoted to the mission of preventing unnecessary deaths due to bleeding, aiming to revolutionize the medical landscape. With its headquarters in Beverly, Massachusetts, Velico leverages its team's vast expertise in transfusion medicine and medical device development. The company is actively forging partnerships with various stakeholders, including civilian and military blood centers, trauma surgeons, and emergency medical professionals globally.
About Our Blood Institute
As a key player in the blood supply chain, Our Blood Institute plays a vital role across multiple states, operating a network of 17 donor centers. OBI serves as the nonprofit blood provider for numerous medical institutions, catering to over 240 hospitals and medical facilities.
In Oklahoma, OBI manages 10 donor centers and is responsible for delivering more than 95% of the blood supply to over 160 hospitals, illustrating its crucial position within the healthcare ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Blood Center Education Program?
The BCEP provides partners like OBI an opportunity to engage with innovative technologies, enhancing the blood supply chain and emergency response capabilities.
How does FrontlineODP™ technology work?
FrontlineODP™ can be rapidly rehydrated to become ready for transfusion in about 2.5 minutes and does not require refrigeration, making it ideal for emergency situations.
Who are the main stakeholders involved in this partnership?
This collaboration involves key leaders from OBI, Velico, trauma surgeons, emergency medical providers, and military personnel focused on improving prehospital blood transfusion.
What impact does this partnership have on emergency medical services?
The partnership aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of blood transfusions in emergency settings, potentially saving lives through timely interventions.
Is FrontlineODP™ FDA approved?
No, the FrontlineODP™ system is currently under investigation and has not yet received FDA approval for any indications.
