Dr George Sikharulidze
We’re frequently asked how exactly the emergency line works….. Dr George Sikharulidze, MedicAlert’s Head of Services explains.
‘Over the last few years, we have been involved in a major project to upgrade our Membership database. As a result of this work, we now have a highly intelligent database system that allows instant updates to member’s medical records. This helps us to improve services within the MedicAlert office, but more importantly this gives front line emergency personnel accurate information about a Member within seconds.’
The MedicAlert emergency line is managed by the London Ambulance Service at their headquarters in London and calls are accepted 24/7 from around the world. Once an emergency call is received, within seconds, up-to-date medical information can be passed to the emergency personnel dealing with a patient.’
Once a first-responder has spotted a MedicAlert Emblem, they can call the emergency number and quote the patients MedicAlert ID Number. The phoneline operators verify that they are talking to someone bona fide, and then they can relay vital information to the emergency services which quite simply saves lives .
Dr George says:-
‘The database enables medical personnel to have accurate and appropriate information available about a Member. Each week we hear of real life examples of how the MedicAlert service has provided vital information to emergency personnel treating Members. Our new database ensures that once a Members details have been updated on their file, the information is immediately live and available in an emergency.’
Each month, the MedicAlert emergency line receives calls from Paramedics, A&E staff, Police officers and other first-responders. We recently had a call from an off-duty Doctor who was attending to someone at a cinema complex.
MedicAlert’s database currently holds more than 300,000 individual records and this grows each day. The detail held includes member’s personal details such as name and address or next of kin and emergency contacts. The system also records extensive medical information on behalf of Members. This can include any medication taken, allergies or implants. The database can also store clinical attachments and medical scans as well as advance decision wishes and care plans which can be viewed by emergency and health care professionals.
To find out more about the MedicAlert service take a look at www.MedicAlert.org.uk or call us on freephone 0800 581 420.
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