The readers of our Knoxville Tennessee Social Security disability law blog have most likely heard some form of the phrase or warning that “accidents happen.” We rely on our vehicles to get us from point A to point B, often multiple times a day. Although they are incredibly helpful, getting in a vehicle does leave open the door for an accident that could cause serious injuries.
When an accident unexpectedly occurs that leaves us with serious physical injuries that make working impossible, Social Security disability benefits for injuries can help. Even though those that become disabled have relief options available, it is probably safe to assume that a large number of those individuals may wish they had a full recovery from their injuries instead.
The University of Tennessee Medical Center is participating in a clinical trial that will hopefully change the story of some individuals after a serious accident.
Researchers hypothesize that by giving plasma to trauma patients as soon as possible, specifically before air-transport lands at the hospital, the patient would have a better outcome possibly avoiding disability or even death in many situations. LifeStar, the company that transports many emergency patients to UTMC, is also participating in the clinical trial.
This hypothesis isn’t out of left field either. Military service members injured in combat zones often receive plasma early, and it seems to help raise their survival rate. The principal study investigator and UTMC’s trauma medical director Dr. Brian Daley discussed these military findings, and he hopes to see similar results when the theory is applied to the civilian population.
Individuals already routinely receive plasma when taken to the emergency department, but the clinical trial will simply alter the timing of when the patient receives it. As with any other blood transfusion or related matter, those that want to opt out are certainly allowed to do so. Calling, visiting the study’s website, wearing a medical bracelet or carrying a card are all options for opting out prior to a situation in which they could become unexpectedly incapacitated.
Source: Jems, “University of Tennessee Medical Center Participates in Plasma Delivery Study,” Kristi L. Nelson, April 10, 2014