A groundbreaking trial in Northumberland has seen blood supplies successfully transported between hospitals via drone, potentially revolutionizing the way vital medical supplies are delivered. The drones flew at over 100kph, completing the 68km journey in just over an hour, saving seven minutes compared to the traditional route by road. Researchers found no difference in the quality of the blood samples delivered by drone, with no damage to blood cells or changes in potassium levels.
The success of the trial has raised hopes for a nationwide rollout of drone deliveries for blood supplies, with the potential to significantly improve the speed and efficiency of getting blood to hospitals. Apian, the logistics company behind the trial, has shown promising results and believes that drone transportation is a safe and effective method for delivering blood.
In addition to improving blood delivery in rural areas, drone transportation could also offer benefits in large urban areas with heavy traffic congestion, making deliveries quicker and more efficient. The company, founded by NHS doctors and a former Google Health entrepreneur, aims to find innovative solutions to streamline deliveries to hospitals and clinics.
While the drone trials have been well received, the full-scale implementation of the scheme would require approval from the Civil Aviation Authority. However, the potential benefits of using drones to transport blood supplies are clear, offering a faster and more reliable method of delivering vital medical supplies to those in need.
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