Best Practices – Provider

Practice
The provider wanted to create a simple way for staff to have grab and go emergency information for each person they serve. The provider created what appears to be a typical business card on the front side of the card. The front of the card has the provider’s contact information and on the back side of the card there is space for the following information: Person’s Name, Address and Phone number, Emergency contact and phone number, Doctor’s name and phone number, Current medications and Characteristics. The card is completed for each person and one copy is given to staff and a copy is given to the person to keep with them while out in the community in the event of an emergency. In addition, the staff provides education on the importance of carrying this information and the importance of not giving out too much information to prevent identity theft. Staff and the person can keep the card in their wallets or pocketbooks.

Who Benefits? The Individual
How? The person benefits as they are learning how to maintain important information on them while out in the community so that they are prepared in the event the police or the EMT’s are called for help. The person also benefits from staff having this information readily available to ensure no delays in getting the proper care and to ensure accurate information is given in the event of an emergency.