News at UI Health

The University of Illinois Hospital and Health Sciences System and The Institute for Transfusion Medicine (ITxM) have announced a strategic alliance for research, education and transfusion-medicine services. The collaboration is the first of its kind in the Midwest and will establish a Center of Excellence for Transfusion Medicine.

UI Health has contracted with ITxM to provide a transparent academic partnership with university faculty and to provide hospital services that include transfusion medicine, blood components, donor services and therapeutic hemapheresis services for patients. Dr. Frederick Behm, the Frances B. Geever Professor and head of pathology, says the department has a commitment to excellence in education, service and research and is known for novel programs, including personalized diagnostic testing. "Our division of pathology research has a translational focus," Behm said. "We are deeply engaged in serving our community, consistent with the mission of UIC."

Dr. Sally Campbell-Lee, associate professor of pathology, will serve as medical director of the new Center of Excellence for Transfusion Medicine.

"With more than 20 years of experience in the operation of centralized transfusion services, ITxM is highly regarded in the field of transfusion medicine," Campbell-Lee said. "Our expertise and shared commitment to impacting patient care at the highest level and the advancement of transfusion science has made this an ideal partnership."

Integration will take place over the next several months, she said, and patient service will continue without interruption. The collaboration will "enhance donor services, research funding opportunities, the training of residents and fellows in transfusion medicine, and provide the latest technology to serve as a resource for the entire region," Campbell-Lee said.

ITxM is one of the nation's foremost nonprofit organizations in transfusion medicine and related services. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, with operations and offices in Chicago; Pittston, Pa.; and Richmond, Va., ITxM provides comprehensive transfusion support, including medical staff consultation and treatment plans along with testing and delivery of blood products.

"Our expertise in transfusion medicine, therapeutic hemapheresis, and blood donor services will be key elements of our partnership with UI Health in realizing our common vision for leading transfusion medicine capabilities, related medical education, and research in Illinois," said James P. Covert, president and CEO of ITxM.