The Gary Letizia Pre-Hospital Blood Transfusion Act authorizes advanced life support providers in New Jersey to administer blood products to patients in pre-hospital settings under medical oversight. The bill outlines the necessary steps for advanced life support agencies to establish a blood transfusion program, including notifying the Department of Health 60 days in advance, designating a blood bank medical director, ensuring that only certified providers administer blood products, and maintaining proper storage and warming equipment. Additionally, the act mandates that participating providers conduct quarterly audits, submit reports to the Department of Health, and implement protocols for managing transfusion reactions.

The legislation also establishes reimbursement guidelines, ensuring that pre-hospital blood transfusion services are covered similarly to hospital-based transfusions under NJ FamilyCare and Medicaid programs, as well as by private insurance carriers. To support the implementation of these programs, the Department of Health will create a grant program to assist with initial costs, and it will work with blood banks to ensure the availability of low-titer O whole blood. Furthermore, the act emphasizes the importance of a stewardship program to prevent waste and ensure efficient blood product management between advanced life support agencies and hospitals.