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We may not like to think about it, but emergency situations can happen at any time to anyone. Are you prepared in case of a medical emergency? One of the best things you can do to be prepared is to enroll in the Emergency Information Vial Program. The purpose of this program is to assist emergency responders such as firefighters, paramedics, and police to easily find and access medical information about the patient.  Having easily accessible information will also help emergency room and hospital personnel to facilitate the care process.

The Purpose of the Program

The Halton Region Health Department and Paramedic Services Division developed an Emergency Information Vial Program a few years ago. Its purpose is to provide emergency responders with the most up to date and pertinent medical information. These responders are then able to assess and apply the most appropriate drug treatment and care very quickly. This increases the chances of a more positive outcome for the patient.

What is an Emergency Information Vial?

A clear plastic vial is used to place the information into. The vial has a white easy-snap cap and is clearly marked with a bright fluorescent orange label. On the label are 3 universal emergency symbols for medical, police, and fire. An emergency information form is put inside the vial. This form is to be completed by you in full with the most up-to-date information. Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or a relative to help you with completing the form if you need assistance.  It is important to always keep the information up-to-date.  Once the form is complete, place it into the vial and place the vial into the refrigerator preferably in one of the shelves of the door. The vial also contains two additional fluorescent orange labels. These are important, Stick one of them on the front door of your house where it can be easily seen, and the other label should be applied to the refrigerator door.

This is How it Works

The Vial Program will decrease the amount of time emergency responders spend looking for basic medical and prescription information. When this information is easily accessible it greatly assists the medical team. Having access to a patient’s medical information and health history is critical. Having all the medical information centralized in the vial will save time and save lives. This program is a great benefit to emergency responders and patients.

Seniors will benefit greatly from the program. They often are more likely to take multiple medications; they have multiple medical conditions and are often at a greater risk of debilitating health events. Seniors often live alone and they may not have someone to help communicate important health information to emergency personnel. This is what makes the Vial Program so important.

If you would like to participate in the Vial Program you can call or visit the pharmacy at Brant Arts. We will help you get started and answer all of your questions.