Information you need when you call 911
The last thing you want to do in an emergency is panic and scramble for medical information. That's why you need to be ready with the vital information emergency responders and doctors need when a situation arises.
"When dialing 911, verify the address and specific location of the emergency," says Scott Kasper, corporate director of emergency medical services at Virtua Health. "This is especially important because many people make emergency calls from cellular phones, and that number does not correspond to the location of the emergency. Also, tell the dispatcher any medical history related to the emergency and provide a call-back number."
In addition, gather a list of the following:
* Medical history
* Medications
* Allergies
* Preferred hospital and its address and phone number
* Emergency contacts
* Insurance information
* Physician phone numbers.
Keeping this vital medical information in an easily accessible place at home and in the car can help save time in an emergency.