Tips to Keep You Prepared

In this Article:
Before Going to the Emergency Room
Tips to Keep You Prepared
Determining If or When You Should Go

The following tips are geared towards making certain you are prepared for a medical emergency so that you can make a more informed choice about whether or not to go to the ER.

Have a regular doctor

A regular physician, one with your complete medical history and one who can arrange to see you in a moment’s notice, is your best defense against emergencies.

Research health care options in your area

Urgent care and minor emergency clinics are significantly cheaper than a visit to a hospital ER, they will most likely require less of your time, and you will still be seen by a licensed medical doctor.

Carry important medical information with you

Like the medical ID bracelets worn by people with food allergies or other medical conditions, you should consider keeping, in your wallet or in your purse, important medical information about you as well, whether or not you have such a condition. The information should include:

• your doctor’s name and number
• any illnesses you have
• any medications you take and the dosage
• whether or not you are pregnant

The information can prove valuable to any emergency medical care worker who is attempting to diagnose you.

Determine the kind of ERs at local hospitals
Not all hospitals are equipped to handle every emergency. In fact, some hospitals don't have any emergency care. Emergency facilities are rated Level 1, 2 or 3. Those rated Level 3 are the most comprehensive trauma centers with high-tech equipment and specialists on the premises at all times. Level 1 and 2 centers can handle many kinds of emergencies, but may not have specialists on hand for some needs. Find out what type of emergency services are available at the medical facilities in your community.

Check with your insurance carrier

In short, not all emergencies are covered by health insurance. Those that are may have restrictions or instructions attached to them, such as the need to contact your carrier within a certain time frame after you’ve been admitted to the ER.

Call the ER before you leave

Calling ahead of time may reduce the time you wait at an ER, if it gives the staff a chance to get ready for your arrival. You will probably speak to a triage nurse, who may consider your symptoms over the phone but can not diagnose you. Depending on a number of factors, the nurse may or may not recommend that you:

• come in to the ER
• call 911 and Emergency Medical Services
• do or carry out certain things (such as stem any bleeding) before you reach the hospital
• go to a different ER, one that is perhaps better equipped to deal with your emergency

A word to parents: Parents ought to give consideration to filing a consent form with your community ER that permits physicians to initiate medical treatment on your child in the event you are unreachable for whatever reason. If a consent form like this makes you uncomfortable, bring up alternative options with your lawyer.

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