Prehospital Blood Transfusion Coalition: framework for EMS Blood Program Coordinator responsibilities

The success of prehospital blood transfusion programs depends not only on clinical guidelines and provider competencies but also on robust program coordination.

This guidance defines the scope and responsibilities of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Blood Program Coordinators and Program Managers, in alignment with the AABB (American Association of Blood and Biotherapies) Standards for Emergency Prehospital and Scheduled Out-of-Hospital Transfusions, as well as the Prehospital Blood Transfusion Coalition (PHBTC) clinical practice guideline for civilian EMS. Coordinators oversee program implementation, regulatory compliance, operational logistics, and quality management under the supervision of the Transfusion Administration Service medical director.

Responsibilities include validating storage and transport systems, ensuring continuous monitoring of blood components, standardizing education, and facilitating interagency collaboration. By formalizing this role, the guideline supports safe and consistent program operations across diverse EMS systems.

Collectively, the PHBTC series provides a structured framework to advance prehospital transfusion as a reliable, evidence-based intervention that improves outcomes for patients with life-threatening hemorrhage.