Time may be critical! Do you really want the medics to spend precious time detailing your medical history in an emergency, when you could easily hand them your accurately recorded history on paper?

When you receive a visit from Emergency Medical Service they often need to gather your medical history and other vital information in an effort to provide the best of care. The modern ambulance crew is often licensed to administer most drugs available in the emergency room at the hospital. They often cannot do that without your accurate medical history.

In addition, the first responder's time with you will be short and they often transport you to the Hospital (ER). That handoff transfer requires accurate patient information.

1. Fold in half and stop at the fold line exposing the words "Emergency Medical Data."
2. Place the EMD on the outside of your refrigerator using a refrigerator magnet or in an envelope marked "Emergency Medical Data." A magnet will not work on stainless steel so use an alternate attachment method. Consider including your Health Care Power of Attorney and the No-CPR or DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) form if you have one. The refrigerator is a known location in homes and easy to locate. Ask your local Fire/EMS for their preferred location.
3. Place a copy of the (EMD) in the glove compartment box for each vehicle you own and for each member of the family. First responders often look there in a vehicle accident.
4. Carry a copy in your purse, wallet, backpack, laptop bag, briefcase, suitcase, golf bag, travel bag, baby pack, etc.
5. Then think of any location where you might be without the (EMD) and make one available.
6. Tell friends you have an (EMD) sheet and the locations.
7. Have copies of your "Health Care Power of Attorney" and your (No-CPR or DNR) "Do Not Resuscitate" form, if you have one, in the same location as your (EMD). The forms won't help if they're not readily available.
8. People that live alone will often place a copy of the (EMD) in a prominent location just as you enter their living quarters such as on a table in the foyer and make it easily identifiable.