Electronic Medical Records Vital in an Emergency.
Up-to-date information helps reduce medical errors.

TURLOCK , California (August 26, 2004) - In an emergency, medical personnel have only moments to determine a patient's needs and begin lifesaving care. Unfortunately, patients often cannot communicate their special needs in an emergency, and face an increased risk of medical errors.

Medical errors rank as the 8th leading cause of death in the country, ahead of motor vehicle accidents, breast cancer, or AIDS, according to the Institute of Medicine.

Individuals can reduce their risk for medical errors by joining MedicAlert(r), which provides the medical information that is often needed before treatment can begin. Emergency responders call the organization's 24-Hour live emergency hotline, which is listed on a body-worn medical emblem and card, to receive further information on the patient's electronic medical record, including medical conditions, allergies, medications, implanted devices, advance directives, emergency contacts, insurance provider, and more. MedicAlert also contacts the patient's family, so they are not alone in an emergency.

Most pharmacies have information on how to join MedicAlert, who is one of the exhibitors at this year's National Association of Chain Drug Store's Pharmacy and Technology Conference in San Diego. The conference will be held at the San Diego Convention Center from August 28 to September 1.

Today, MedicAlert is one of the largest nonprofit membership organizations in the world with a mission to protect and save lives. Since 1956, MedicAlert has relayed member's key medical facts to emergency medical personnel so that they receive faster, safer treatment, and avoid harmful or fatal reactions. For more information, call 1-800-ID-ALERT or visit www.medicalert.org.