Medical Information Identification for Emergencies

It can be very upsetting when a loved one suddenly becomes sick and has to be transported to a hospital for emergency treatment. Always keep medical history records in a place where family members can find them immediately. It can save time and perhaps save your life when a physician has all the information he needs at his fingertips in an emergency.

Purpose of Medical Information Identification

• Everyone has a medical emergency at some point--whether your own or a family member's. At moments like this, it can be very hectic and nerve-wracking when an ambulance has to be called. A caregiver or family member might not be in the right frame of mind to deliver important information to ambulance personnel or hospital registration, especially when someone's life is in danger. You can save a lot of time if you have important medical information close at hand, giving a copy of your records and medical information to the medical attendee.

Keep a Record

• In an emergency, it's a good idea to have a record of all medications--prescriptions and over-the counter--that you are taking. If you are allergic to food or medications, this should be listed. All medications, as well as dosage and scheduled time to take it, should be listed. The record should show any chronic disorders such as high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease. If you previously have been hospitalized for conditions such as heart attacks or strokes, this also should be listed. Other information to include in a record is your doctor's name, emergency contacts, medical insurance information as well as the preferred hospital you want to go to.

Choosing an Emergency ID

• Aside from the record you keep at home, you can carry a wallet-size medical ID card that will show your name, date of birth and address. It also should include an emergency contact, such as spouse or other family member. This wallet card should include the name of your physician, medical conditions, allergies and medications. Other types of medical ID people carry are medical bracelets, armbands, dog tags and necklaces that have the Caduceus symbol on them, alerting attending personnel of medical conditions.

Traveling with a Medical Condition

• Just as you need to have your ID or passport and traveler's checks when traveling traveling in the United States or abroad, never leave home without a record of important medical information if you are traveling with a medical condition. In an emergency, the information can be vital in your treatment. If you are unable to speak, the information can tell a doctor what condition you have, what medication you are taking and what you are allergic to. Do not forget to list emergency contact name and phone number, along with the area code.

What Not to Include

• When traveling with a record of your medical information and history, or wearing any kind of medical identification, do not include your Social Security number, insurance numbers, credit card information and bank information on items that are visible to the public.