Personal Medical Information
Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Having your personal medical information on a card in your wallet or purse can be a life-saver. Dr. Ken Davis tells us why in today’s 60 Second Housecall.

It’s important to keep medical information readily available in case of emergencies. The Emergency Medical team will need this information to provide you appropriate care.

Be sure to organize the information and keep it in your wallet or purse. Use a medical information form and include the following:

� Name

� Birthdate

� Medication and food allergies

� Prescription medications, including doses and schedules

� Chronic conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease.

� Any reasons for hospitalizations, such as heart attacks, strokes, or major surgeries.

� Doctor’s name

� Hospital preference, and

� Medical insurance information

Never put a social security number on this list. It’s not important for responders and if the list is lost, it could compromise your privacy.

Keeping this information handy will help the medical team give you the best and safest care possible.

For North Mississippi Medical Center, I’m Dr. Ken Davis.