Seconds in an emergency can save a life.
Oxford County EMS present the CARE LINK medical information files
Access to a patient's health history and medical information is critical, and can potentially save precious time during an emergency response call. Care Link Medical Information File is a free vinyl pouch that holds important medical information that can be vital to emergency responders.
This vinyl pouch has a magnet on the back and attaches to your refrigerator door. A decal is placed on the door of the home to let paramedics and other emergency responders know that this information can be found on the refrigerator door.
Each pouch comes with three (3) cards that can be completed for each family member. The information on the cards tells paramedics everything they need to know about a patient's existing medical conditions, current medications and drug allergies if the patient is unable to communicate. Once the patient arrives at hospital the file is handed over to emergency staff and all of the medical information that they need is on hand.
A photograph can also be enclosed with the card for anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s or any type of dementia and it could be invaluable for police and/or media in locating and safely returning a missing individual.
Who distributes CareLink medical information files?
We have partnered with a wide array of organizations to help bring the CareLink Medical Information File to as many people as possible in the community. Medical Information Files are available at the following locations:
Oxford County Public Health and Emergency Services – 410 Buller Street, Woodstock
Oxford County Administrative Building - 21 Reeve Street, Woodstock
Zorra Township Municipal Office
South West Oxford Municipal Office
NorwichTownship Municipal Office
East Zorra Tavistock Municipal Office
Princeton Library
Woodstock Library
Ingersoll Library
Southgate Centre – Woodstock
Tillsonburg Muti Service Centre
For further information on the program or how to receive a kit send an e-mail to dmarshall@oxfordcounty.ca or call (519)539-0015 ext 3497
Frequently Asked Questions
What information do Care Link Medical Information Files provide?
The cards include many health categories such as allergies, medications, respiratory, cardiovascular, blood disorders, neurological, other. Each category gets into more specific information.
What happens when my medical information changes?
We provide three cards in each file. When information changes and it can no longer be clearly marked on the existing card, a new card can be used. If a person runs out of cards, they simply call the number on the cards to obtain more. It is important to update your file and include the date the update was made.
How do paramedics know that the Medical Information File is present when they respond to a call?
Decals are placed on the doors of the home. Paramedics recognize the decal and know that the file can be found on the person’s refrigerator. In addition, other emergency response agencies are aware of the Carelink program in Oxford County.
Do emergency room physicians use the Medical Information File?
Absolutely. When someone is brought to the hospital by paramedics or a family member, the file goes with them. ER physicians are very grateful for the information the files provide.
If the person being treated by paramedics is non-responsive, how do they know that the information on the card relates to that person?
Our instruction sheet advises Medical Information File users to attach a photo of themselves to their card.
What do Care Link Medical Information Files Cost?
Medical Information files are free to individuals wanting them for personal use. Due to cost constraints, we do not mail them. Organizations who wish to give them away at local events are asked to contact Oxford EMS for more information.