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Preparing for the Unexpected

What if you received a call right now telling you that your mother fell and is on her way to the emergency room? Do you know who her doctor is? What medications she is taking? What allergies she has? It's very important to have vital information about a loved one at your fingertips.

Meridian At Home has prepared a list of the most important things you should know in case an unexpected medical emergency occurs:

1. Physician(s) Names/Numbers: This is one of the most important pieces of information you should have.
2. Birth Date
3. Social Security Number
4. List of Allergies
5. Advance Directives, which is a legal document that outlines a person's decisions about their health care. (Click here to visit the "Advance Directives" video segment located in the Meridian At Home Caregiver Learning Center for more information.)
6. Major Medical Problems – Does your loved one have cancer, diabetes, or similar illnesses?
7. List of Medication(s) and Pharmacy Used
8. Need for adaptive devices such as a cane or hearing aid
9. Religious Beliefs that might influence your loved one's feelings about blood transfusions or other medical interventions.
10. Emergency Contact Information
11. Insurance Information
12. Previous Surgeries and Dates
13. Lifestyle Information: Use of cigarettes, alcohol, exercise or diet.

If you prepare this information in advance, you'll be able to provide medical information in the event of an unexpected accident. It can save precious time and help medical professionals if your loved one isn't in a position to offer this information.

You can also visit the Resources and Tips section of our website to print out the "Steps for Getting Your Affairs in Order" form, which includes questions regarding financial, legal, medical, insurance, final wishes, and document location information.

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