Two of Horizon Health Network’s hospitals have received national recognition for their efforts to strengthen Canada’s blood supply.

The Saint John Regional Hospital (SJRH) and the Moncton Hospital (TMH) were recently designated “Using Blood Wisely” hospitals, joining more than 180 sites across Canada trying to reduce unnecessary red blood cell transfusions.

The program is a partnership between Choosing Wisely Canada and Canadian Blood Services.

“We are thrilled that our efforts to ensure blood is used for the right purpose have been recognized as part of this national campaign,” said Clare Wright, the manager of transfusion medicine and stem cell laboratories at the SJRH. “Helping to conserve this critically important resource that saves lives and protects health is a priority for us.”

To receive the designation, facilities must meet or exceed national benchmarks and maintain the standards.

The initiative comes at a critical time, with demand for blood projected to increase by nearly 10 per cent over the next five years, according to Canadian Blood Services.

Horizon’s vice-president of professional services Jeff Carter said initiatives like this support the health network’s strategic pillar of delivery excellence in hospital care across New Brunswick.