Medical City Healthcare is part of a national study that is learning about using plasma from recovered COVID-19 patients to treat those in critical condition with the virus.
“We are proud to take part in this important study. We are asking for the help of our community to spread awareness about plasma donation for patients facing COVID-19 not only here in North Texas, but also around the world,” says Medical City Healthcare Chief Medical Officer Dr. Miguel Benet via release.
Medical City Healthcare facilities are among the 172 hospitals in the HCA Healthcare network participating in the study. HCA’s Sarah Cannon Research Institute is putting its research capabilities to work to expand plasma collection and analysis, working with the Mayo Clinic and the FDA.
Although there is no proven therapy for coronavirus patients, using plasma from recovered to treat others is an established technique, and was even used during the Spanish Flu in 1919. Antibodies from those who are on the mend may help others who are critically ill. The treatment was also used to treat SARS-1 and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).
If someone has a confirmed positive test and a subsequent negative test after recovery, they are eligible to donate plasma through the American Red Cross. To see if you are eligible or to learn more about donating in North Texas call (833) 582-1971 or visit HCA Healthcare’s plasma donation website.
