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File of Life Program Ensures Better Response From Emergency Medical Services

The University of Missouri Children's Hospital inducted two new 'kid friendly' ambulances into its fleet.
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The University of Missouri Children's Hospital inducted two new 'kid friendly' ambulances into its fleet.

COLUMBIA -- A new program aiding emergency response is coming to Columbia, according to an announcement from the Columbia Fire Department, MU Healthcare and Boone Hospital.

The File of Life program aims at helping emergency responders when patients are unable to communicate with them. Residents list their medical information on a form, place it in a fireproof file and put it on their fridge. The form includes prescriptions, allergies, medical history and emergency contacts.

File of Life is a national initiative. The product first started in 1995, and has since been implemented in more than 18 million homes across the country. Assistant Fire Chief Brad Fraizer says it was brought to the fire department’s attention by a part-time Columbia resident.

“She e-mailed us and said she had been caring for her elderly father in Illinois,” Fraizer said. “She became familiar with the File of Life there, and she thought that the Columbia community could benefit from it.”

Although the program is not mandatory, Fraizer strongly recommends it to any Columbia resident regardless of age.

“Young or old, there's always that chance that you can have a medical emergency and not be able to communicate with first responders,” he said.

To him, the file ensures a quicker and better response from rescue teams.

“It’s giving us very important medical information in a timely manner,” Fraizer said. “Which in turns allows us to treat patients more effectively and more quickly.”

Residents can pick up packets for free at fire stations. Hospitals will also distribute them at community events and health screenings. Those who are unable to pick one by themselves can call the Fire Department, and a crew will bring it to them.