Drones to Revolutionise Urgent Blood Sample Transport in London
As providers of professional drone photo and video services in the UK, Moogies Media welcomes the increasing use of drones for practical applications. With the expanding potential of drones, it's exciting to see how they are transforming industries like healthcare, where speed and precision are vital.
Blood Sample Transport
In a groundbreaking move, urgent blood samples from a major London hospital will now be delivered by drones to bypass the city’s traffic. This innovative solution aims to drastically reduce the time needed for analysis, according to officials.
The initiative, led by Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, will transport blood samples between the two hospitals using drones, significantly cutting down delivery times. Currently, couriers take over 30 minutes to transport samples by road—a journey of nearly two miles between Guy's Hospital and St Thomas' Hospital. However, with drones, the same delivery can be completed in under two minutes.
CAA Regulated
This six-month pilot project, regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority, focuses on transporting blood samples from patients undergoing high-risk surgeries with potential complications from bleeding disorders. The pilot is scheduled to launch this autumn.
Experts believe this trial could pave the way for wider drone use, including other medical deliveries across hospitals within the trust and throughout London.
“The drone pilot combines two of our key priorities - providing the best possible patient care and improving sustainability,” said Prof Ian Abbs, Chief Executive of Guy’s and St Thomas’.
NHS Research
Recent research by NHS Blood and Transplant has shown that drones can safely transport blood stocks between hospitals. Tests comparing blood delivered via drones and road found no significant differences in quality, proving the viability of drone transport.
A similar trial for blood platelets is also in the works.
Inspired?
If you’re inspired by how drones are being used to solve real-world problems and want to explore what drones can do for your creative or business needs, contact Moogies Media today!