Upper River Valley Hospital earns national recognition for blood conservation

URVH joins two other Horizon hospitals to achieve national “Using Blood Wisely” designation

(WATERVILLE) – Horizon Health Network’s (Horizon) Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH) recently earned national recognition for reducing unnecessary red blood cell transfusions, an important step in improving patient safety and care while strengthening the country’s blood supply.

The URVH joins nearly 200 sites across Canada as a “Using Blood Wisely” hospital. Horizon’s The Moncton Hospital (TMH) and Saint John Regional Hospital (SJRH) received similar designations in 2025.

“We are incredibly proud that the hard work of our laboratory and clinical teams has led to the Upper River Valley Hospital being recognized,” said Lauren Graham, Clinical Specialist of Transfusion Medicine, Fredericton and Upper River Valley area. “Our laboratory professionals take their role as stewards of our national blood supply very seriously, ensuring every unit is used with the utmost care and responsibility.”

Using Blood Wisely is a partnership between Choosing Wisely Canada, a clinician-led campaign aimed at reducing unnecessary tests and treatments, and Canadian Blood Services, the national charity that operates Canada’s blood and plasma supply system.

Becoming a Using Blood Wisely hospital requires facilities to meet or exceed national benchmarks and regularly audit a sample of their red blood cell transfusions to ensure those standards are maintained. Hospitals that do not meet the benchmarks can enrol in a quality improvement initiative and apply once they do.

Clinicians and lab teams use evidence-based guidelines to decide when a transfusion is necessary, considering factors like hemoglobin levels, symptoms, and the patient’s overall condition. Research shows giving more blood than necessary can increase risks, and in most cases, one unit of blood is as effective as two — and may even be safer.

With Canadian Blood Services projecting demand for blood to increase by nearly 10 per cent over the next five years, working to reduce unnecessary transfusions comes at a critical time.

“This achievement reflects the commitment of our physicians and care teams to evidence-based practices that improve patient outcomes,” said Dr. Martha Mills, Chief of Staff, Fredericton and Upper River Valley area. “By reducing unnecessary transfusions, we not only protect the blood supply but also enhance patient safety and quality of care.”

“Initiatives such as this support Horizon’s strategic pillar of delivering excellence in hospital care across the province,” said Jeff Carter, Horizon’s VP Professional Services. “We’re proud of our staff at the Upper River Valley Hospital for achieving this designation.”

Other Horizon facilities are also working toward achieving the Using Blood Wisely designation.

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