MedicAlert® Week Celebrated in Cyprus
Nonprofit organization helps to reduce medical errors
TURLOCK , California (September 20, 2004) – In an emergency, medical personnel have only moments to determine a patients needs, and begin lifesaving care. Unfortunately, patients often cannot communicate their special needs, and face an increased risk of medical errors.
MedicAlert Foundation International has an affiliate in Cyprus, who has designated October 11-16 as MedicAlert ® Awareness Week. During this week, various activities will be organized to promote MedicAlert services which help to reduce medical errors.
“I am thankful for all the generous support and donations we have received for MedicAlert Awareness Week,” said Costas Hadjyiannis, Director General and CEO of MedicAlert Cyprus. “Education about MedicAlert is vital because we save lives on a daily basis.”
A MedicAlert bracelet or pendant provides information that is often needed before emergency treatment can begin. In addition, first responders and law enforcement can call the organization’s 24-Hour Emergency Response Center to receive further information on the patient, including emergency contacts, allergies, medications, implanted devices, insurance provider, and more. MedicAlert also contacts the patient’s family, so they are not alone in an emergency.
MedicAlert Awareness Week is supported by Minister of Health Constantina Akkelidou, the Diabetics and Antireumatics Associations, Lions Clubs, and the Cyprus Football Association.
“On behalf of MedicAlert Foundation International, I congratulate our affiliate in Cyprus on their efforts to raise awareness about our lifesaving service,” said Paul Kortschak, President and CEO. “They are integral to our goal of providing worldwide support for all MedicAlert members.”
About MedicAlert Foundation Cyprus
MedicAlert Foundation Cyprus was founded in 1975 after the initiative of Takis Georghiou, the Governor at that time of Lions District 117 Greece and Cyprus. It is supported by the Ministry of Health, Lions Clubs, volunteers, and sponsors. The foundation has 12,000 members in Cyprus .
About MedicAlert Foundation International
MedicAlert Foundation International is one of the largest nonprofit membership organizations in the world, with a mission to protect and save lives. The foundation has 4 million members, and nine global affiliates. 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.