It is best to be medically prepared in case of an emergency, especially in your older years.  Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults.  Over 14 million people 65 and older in the United States report falling yearly.  Of those reported, 37% required medical treatment or restricted their activity for at least one day.  Other factors to consider are heart attacks, strokes, or respiratory issues.  When an emergency happens, information must be provided to the emergency response team, so it is best to be prepared.

How to be medically prepared?

The best way to be medically prepared is to develop a personal health record, which provides the following information:

• Patient’s medical history including diagnosis and when they were diagnosed
• List of medications including prescribed, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements.
• Past surgeries and when they occurred
• Immunization status
• Allergies and other relevant medical conditions that can impact the delivery of emergency care (i.e. Type 1 diabetes, etc.)
• Blood type
• Whom to contact in the event of an emergency
• Insurance information
• Patient’s regular health providers including names and phone numbers

Why do I need to do this?

Since no one knows when an emergency will happen and the person may or may not be able to speak for themselves, it’s best to have a document to hand to a medical provider to answer all their questions.  It’s important for emergency responders to know a person’s medical conditions, medications and allergies.  In the heat of the moment, things can be forgotten, so this list makes sure medical personnel are aware.  Keep in mind, this document should be updated as a person’s medications and medical conditions evolve.

Do I also need a POLST to be medically prepared?

A POLST (Physician Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment) is a written medical order from a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant that helps give people with serious illnesses more control over their care.  Though POLSTs are designed for people with chronic health conditions, severe illness, or medically frail, some nursing homes and assisted living facilities may include a POLST in their admissions papers.  POLSTs are not required documents but are helpful for people who want less than fully aggressive medical treatment in their current health state.

A POLST form needs to be completed by a patient and recognized medical professional.  Therefore, a person should have an in-depth discussion with their doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant who can explain the form’s medical terms, options and how they relate to your current medical condition.  In order for the form to be valid, it needs to be signed by the patient AND their physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant.  It’s always best to include your family members or advanced healthcare director so they understand and are aware of your medical wishes.

What happens if I change my mind regarding a POLST?

You can change your POLST at any time.  You would need to complete a new form with an authorized medical personnel which you both would sign and date again.  Of course, you can always draw a line through the form, write VOID, then sign and date it.

Where do I store the medically prepared documents?

POLST is printed on pink paper to help make it easier for emergency medical personnel to find it.  Most people will attach it to their fridge or on a wall.  Some people hang it on the inside of a cabinet kitchen door.  At the same time, others will fold it up and place it in their refrigerator where the butter dish goes.  Regarding a personal health records document, someone with a POLST document will place the documents together via staple or transparent plastic sheet protector.  Of course, you can always file it. No matter where you place the documents, let a caregiver, family member, or Advanced Healthcare Director know where these documents are.

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