The Department of Public Safety’s Career Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division in Calvert County has officially launched a new Low-Titer Type O Positive (LTO+) Whole Blood Field Transfusion Program. This initiative, developed in conjunction with Calvert Advanced Life Support and the Calvert County Board of County Commissioners, aims to enhance prehospital emergency care by allowing EMS personnel to administer whole blood directly at the scene of traumatic injuries.
The program’s urgency was underscored by a recent incident involving Deputy James Flynt of the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, who sustained a gunshot wound while pursuing a suspect. Upon arrival at CalvertHealth Medical Center, Deputy Flynt received a whole blood transfusion, which proved crucial for his survival. Medical experts indicate that without the availability of whole blood at the hospital, his chances of survival would have been significantly diminished.
Significance of Whole Blood Transfusions
Calvert County is now the fifth prehospital EMS agency in Maryland and the 270th nationwide authorized to administer whole blood in emergency situations, a move that aligns with military medical practices that have long recognized the effectiveness of whole blood in trauma care. Research indicates that whole blood transfusions can substantially enhance survival rates for patients experiencing life-threatening hemorrhages, particularly in severe trauma cases.
“Delivering whole blood at the point of injury offers a critical advantage over traditional fluids,” stated Dave McDowell, director of the Calvert County Department of Public Safety. He emphasized that this program enables EMS teams to provide advanced, lifesaving care precisely when it is most needed.
Unlike standard intravenous fluids, which only contain saline or electrolytes, whole blood includes all essential blood components: red blood cells, plasma, and platelets. This combination allows for simultaneous oxygen delivery, volume expansion, and clotting factor administration. The LTO+ whole blood utilized in this program is deemed safe for all blood types and age groups, with minimal risk of adverse effects.
Since November 15, 2025, Calvert County’s EMS supervisors have been equipped with two units of LTO+ whole blood, along with the necessary specialized equipment for safe storage and administration. Blood products are supplied by Inova Health System’s Division of Blood Donor Services and are rotated every 14 days. Any unused units are returned to Inova for hospital use, ensuring no blood products are wasted.
Community Commitment and Future Initiatives
“This program represents a significant advancement in prehospital emergency care,” remarked Dr. Jason Finkelstein, the jurisdictional medical director overseeing the initiative. He highlighted that delivering whole blood at the scene could dramatically improve survival rates for patients experiencing severe hemorrhage. “It’s about bringing hospital-level care directly to the patient when every minute counts,” he added.
Calvert County Commissioner President Todd Ireland expressed pride in the program, stating, “This LTO+ Whole Blood Program reflects Calvert County’s continued commitment to innovation, advanced training, and interagency collaboration.” He noted that the county is dedicated to providing the highest standard of prehospital care for both residents and visitors.
In celebration of the program’s launch, the Department of Public Safety will host a blood drive in honor of Deputy James Flynt on March 11, 2026. The event will take place from 10:00 to 14:00 at the Department of Public Safety, located at 110 Main St., Prince Frederick. Those interested in learning more about the LTO+ Whole Blood Program or the upcoming blood drive can contact Dr. Jason Finkelstein at [email protected]
This initiative not only showcases Calvert County’s commitment to enhancing emergency medical services but also serves as a vital reminder of the life-saving potential of timely medical interventions in critical situations.