Health Department

Preparedness Minute

Emergency Health Information Card

It is a good idea for all of us to carry emergency information at all times. One way is to have this information on an emergency health card. An emergency health information card provides information about you to responders if you are found unconscious or are unable to communicate. This is important, as the care, you receive in an emergency is based on the amount of information the provider has about you and your medical conditions.

1. What should be on the card?

The card should contain information about health issues you may have, medications, allergies and sensitivities, preferred treatment, health care providers, and important contact people.

2. Start with Basic information

Start with your basic information: name, address, phone, and date of birth. Include your health insurance information including group and individual numbers as well as the name and phone number of your health care provider.

3. In Case of Emergency

Contacts List all the contact information for at least one person you wish to be notified in the event of an emergency. It is a good idea to have more than one emergency contact in the event the first contact cannot be reached.

4. Health Issues/Conditions

Provide information about your health issues or conditions that a provider or responder may need to know. If you are not sure include the information on your card.

For Example:

Specific diseases or conditions —Epilepsy, Heart conditions, Hepatitis C, HIV positive, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, High Blood Pressure 

More specific information: 

1. I have insulin-dependent diabetes. If I appear to be drunk or disoriented, I may be having a reaction associated with my diabetes. Give me something with sugar, like regular cola, orange juice, or the glucose from the tube I carry with me if I can swallow. If my breath smells fruity, do not give me anything to eat         
2. I have a psychiatric disability. In an emergency, I may become confused or overwhelmed. Help me find a quiet corner and I should be fine in about 10 minutes. If I do not improve, give me one pill of (name of medication) located in my (purse, wallet, pocket, etc.).

Medications:

• If you take medication make sure they are all listed and include: 
• Name of Medication
• Dosage,
• Times taken,
• When first prescribed and how long you have been on the drug,
• Other details regarding specifications of administration/regimen, i.e., insulin Remember to include your allergies to medications.

Speaking of Allergies:

list your allergies and sensitives drugs, food and environment,

here are some examples:

• Penicillin or other antibiotics 
• Aspirin, Tylenol, or other pain remedies 
• Morphine, Codeine, Demerol, or other narcotics 
• Sun exposure 
• Novocain or other anesthetics 
• Detergents, fabric softeners 
• Latex 
• Sulfa drugs 
• Iodine or Methiolate 
• Insect bites, bee stings 
• Eggs, milk, chocolate, or other foods 
• Pesticides 
• Environmental sensitivities
• Tetanus, antitoxin, or other serums

Practical Matters

What should my card look like?

You can make a “card” out of a sheet of paper or use one of the various forms found on the internet. Make sure it is clearly labeled “Emergency Health Information”.

Where do I keep it?

Make several copies, and keep one in your wallet behind your driver’s license or ID card. Keep one in your car, backpack, emergency supply kit, and at work.

Who needs one?

Everyone. Make one for each family member. Keep the card up to date. Update every six months.