From excerpts of the ChicagoTribune.com:
United in a common purpose to assist those in greatest need, River Forest Township and the River Forest Fire Department are collaborating to enhance preparedness among seniors for medical emergencies. This month, they've initiated the distribution of a new ICE (In Case of Emergency) Packet to River Forest residents aged 60 and above. These packets contain a medical information form that residents can fill out and keep in their freezers, where paramedics can quickly find it. Additionally, seniors will receive decals to place on their freezer doors, drawing paramedics' attention to these conveniently labeled ICE Packets.
This effort aligns seamlessly with the township's mission to support seniors, particularly in fostering health and safety, as noted by River Forest Township Supervisor Carla Sloan.
The form included in the packet is an improved version of a document the River Forest Fire Department has been distributing on a trial basis for the last couple of years. Firefighter/Paramedic Dave Bochenek, the project lead, estimates that around 20 to 30 forms have been handed out to residents at community gatherings like block parties and neighborhood association meetings over the past year or so.
River Forest Township has created 1,500 ICE Packets, which they plan to distribute over the coming months, beginning with events during Celebrating Seniors Week, running until May 19th. Similar forms have been utilized in various communities nationwide, and firefighters credit them as valuable tools for delivering quicker and safer assistance, according to Bochenek.
Structured as a questionnaire, the ICE Packet allows individuals to provide an up-to-date overview of their medical history, including current medications and past health conditions. It also includes a list of emergency contacts, insurance details, and other relevant information to offer firefighters critical insights that aid in treatment delivery.
Due to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), paramedics cannot store any of this information. Therefore, they encourage patients transported to medical facilities to retain their ICE Packets.
"Having the ICE Packet means that even if the patient can't communicate, there's still important medical history available that could guide our treatment approach—and we can act more swiftly," Bochenek explained.
In addition to the initial distribution, the township aims to make further progress in enhancing senior care and emergency preparedness throughout the community. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that all residents, especially the elderly, feel secure and supported in their homes.
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