Healthy Living
A Healthy Resolution: Have a ‘File of Life’ Card Handy for Medical Emergencies
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Here’s a New Year’s resolution that is easy to keep: stop by Stamford EMS to pick up a File of Life card. Your File of Life card lists your latest medical information — including allergies, medications, contact persons and more — all in one safe place. If ever there is a medical emergency, a completed card hanging on your refrigerator could save your life.
“Everyone should have a File of Life,” said Bill Ackley, EMS Captain, Special Operations and Preparedness Coordinator of Stamford EMS.
“Paramedics often arrive on a scene with little to no information about the person in need of help. This card is the most efficient and effective way to tell medical providers what to look for in an emergency situation, and how to notify loved ones. Updating the card in January provides current information.”
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— An announcement from Stamford Emergency Medical Services (SEMS), which now provides Darien with in-town paramedics
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While completed cards are especially important for seniors, many children are looked after by caregivers who may not be familiar with the child’s medical history. SEMS urges parents to complete File of Life cards for each of their children, which can be left on their refrigerator or with their caregiver. EMS and other first responders know to look for the card, and in cases when a patient is unable to communicate, it can save precious minutes. A completed card quickly provides an accurate medical history, as well as a list of medications, existing conditions and allergies — vital information needed by paramedics and EMTs to provide lifesaving care during a medical emergency.