Access to Medical Information is Critical in Emergencies

Daily American Republic
August 10, 2005

In an emergency, medical personnel have only moments to determine a patient's needs and begin lifesaving care. Unfortunately, patients often cannot communicate their special needs in an emergency.

"Having fast access to a patient's medical background helps speed diagnosis and treatment, says Charles H. Pancoast, MD, an emergency medicine physician with the Gene E. Huckstep Emergency Center/Level III Trauma Center at Saint Francis Medical Center. "If a patient is unconscious or so distressed that he/she forgets to relay essential information, we need to find that information elsewhere. That could take some time."

One way to quickly share this important information is through MedicAlert, a national nonprofit organization which provides public safety, healthcare and law enforcement personnel with medical information often needed before treatment can begin.

These emergency responders simply call the organization's 24-hour emergency hotline, which is listed on a MedicAlert bracelet or pendant, to receive further information on a patient's electronic medical record. This record may include information on pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, medications, implanted devices, advance directives, insurance provider and more. MedicAlert will also contact a patient's family so they aren't alone in an emergency.

If you chose not to have an electronic link to your medical information through MedicAlert, you can still be prepared in the event of a medical emergency by following these guidelines:

• Keep all medical information current and in a location known to family members and caregivers.
• Be knowledgeable about your medical condition and aware of related symptoms to control emergencies.
• Always carry your vital medical information, preferably through medical identification with a link to a medical record, in your wallet or purse.
• Know your medications and the reasons you are taking them.

"Everyone can help reduce risk and ensure the best possible outcomes for themselves and their families by making sure their medical information is up-to-date and readily available," says Pancoast. "It's something everyone can do to further manage their health for the sake of their families and for their own peace of mind."