Health & Fitness

Complete This Form In Case Of Hospitalization: First Responders

In the age of coronavirus, Montgomery County first responders want residents to fill out a File of Life form in case of hospitalization.

GAITHERSBURG, MD — Montgomery County first responders are encouraging residents to fill out a medical information form to have on hand in case of hospitalization.

It's called a File of Life form.

It's not a new form: it was originally intended for seniors and people with pre-existing medical conditions. But, given the spread of the new coronavirus and more restrictive hospital policies, now is as good a time as any for everyone to fill it out, officials said.

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"Imagine that you are injured or suffer from a medical condition that temporarily renders you unconscious or unable to communicate effectively with paramedics," the county's Fire and Rescue Service said on its website. "Without important information about your medical history, how will first responders be able to quickly assess and treat your condition?"

The form can be found online. It'll ask for a list of medications, medical history, allergies, and emergency contacts.

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