MedicAlert to Train Ceres Personnel
Ceres Courier
September 8, 2004

In an effort to help reduce medical errors in an emergency, MedicAlert ® will offer a training course for Ceres firefighters on September 15. The course will cover how to utilize the nonprofit organization's lifesaving services.

Ceres firefighters will learn how to recognize the MedicAlert body-worn emblem and contact the organization's 24-hour Emergency Response Center to receive more information on the patient's medical records which include medical conditions, allergies, medication dosages, implanted devices, and organ donation specifications. In addition, HIPAA standards will be discussed.

"This training is essential because in an emergency you have only moments to recognize and access an individual's needs," said Brian Shockley, emergency response professional educator at MedicAlert. "If that individual is a MedicAlert member, their medical information is provided within seconds, which greatly reduces the risk for medical errors to occur."

The staff of Emmanuel Medical Center and Students of the Galen College of Medical and Dental Assistants as well as Modesto Junior College's dentistry program will also receive the training this September.

Shockley's courses are available to all community groups and organizations. CEU credits are available for those who qualify and attend the course. For more information, please contact Shockley at 669-2478.