Help Emergency Response Personnel Help You

Clay County Emergency Management

Press Release

Did you know that during an emergency, it can sometimes be difficult for first responders to obtain important medical information?

If you are unconscious, confused, seriously injured, or otherwise unable to communicate, EMS may not know your medical history, medications, allergies, or who to contact.

Take a few minutes today to set up the Medical ID/Emergency Information on your phone.

Many smartphones allow emergency responders to access this information from the lock screen, even when your phone is protected by a passcode.

 INFORMATION TO CONSIDER INCLUDING:

• Full name

• Date of birth

• Medical conditions/history — diabetes, heart disease, seizures, etc.

• Current medications

• Medication and other serious allergies

• Blood type, if known

• Emergency contacts/family members

• Primary care physician, if desired

• Implanted medical devices — pacemaker, ICD, insulin pump, etc.

• Special medical considerations

• Advance directive/DNR information, when applicable

• Any other information you feel would be important for emergency responders to know

 Make sure your emergency contacts are current. Consider including someone who knows your medical history and can provide information if you cannot.

Remember to update your Medical ID whenever something changes—especially after starting or stopping medications, receiving a new diagnosis, developing an allergy, or changing emergency contacts.

 One important reminder: Medical ID information should supplement—not replace—your medical records or conversations with your healthcare provider.

And don't forget about your children and elderly family members. Take a few minutes to help them set up their emergency information as well. In an emergency, every second matters. Taking a few minutes today to enter this information could help EMS, firefighters, law enforcement, and hospital staff provide faster and more informed care when you need it most.

Take a few minutes. Set it up. Keep it updated. It could make a difference when you need help the most.