On September 30, 2024, Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center (GCRBC) and Brazoria County Emergency Services District No. 3 (BCESD3) held a joint press conference to announce a partnership to enhance medical care.

Beginning on September 30, 2024, BCESD 3’s emergency vehicles will be equipped with life-saving blood components, including red cells and plasma, ensuring these critical resources are available when time is of the essence.

In life-threatening situations, every second counts, and immediate access to blood components can significantly impact patient outcomes. Red cells are vital for transporting oxygen throughout the body, while plasma plays a crucial role in clotting and stabilizing blood pressure—both essential for trauma care. By equipping emergency vehicles with these blood products, BCESD 3 is enhancing its ability to provide swift, life-saving interventions.

The Press Conference began with a celebration of the first blood delivery. Speakers included BCESD3 EMS Chief, Tim Welch, GCRBC Vice President of Operations, Marc Lewis, Brazoria County Judge, Matt Sebesta, GCRBC Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Elizabeth Hartwell and BCESD3 Executive Director, Jeff Braun. Other attendees included local hospital executives, members of the both the GCRBC management team and the BCESD3 EMS staff as well as members of the BCESD3 Community Engagement Committee.

“We are thrilled about this partnership. This has been a goal of Chief Welch and our emergency medical services department for quite some time. Chief Welch, Deputy Chief Lammert and the entire EMS team have done a wonderful job in preparing and training to implement this program. The Board of Commissioners for the District have been very supportive and are excited that we can now offer this service to our community. We are the first in the county to implement a program like this but Chief Welch and his team are sharing our information and working with other local agencies to assist them in implementing their own programs,” stated Jeff Braun, Executive Director.

The celebration also included a blood drive that included 14 successful donors, with 17 units of blood collected, which can help save up to 51 patients in need.

Each Speaker mentioned the importance of the blood donors who make this program possible in the first place. Regular donations ensure that our community’s emergency services are equipped and prepared to respond swiftly.

Brazoria County Emergency Services District No. 3 provides Emergency Medical Service and Fire Suppression to 650 square miles, serving a population of over 86,000. The district includes 4 Emergency Medical Service providers and 9 volunteer and municipal Fire Departments.

If you would like additional information regarding Brazoria County Emergency Services District No. 3, please visit our website bcesd3.com, or call 281-519- 8779.