Expedites Emergency Care During emergency situations, residents of the greater Michiana region are now able to send prearrival health information to local emergency rooms, thanks to ICE Michiana—a free smartphone app with a unique “PUSH” functionality. “The idea started with an internal discussion focused on the need for both emergency rooms and first responders to have critical patient information as early on in the care process as possible,” says Gregor Staniszewski, director of Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center Emergency Services. “We came together as a group to discuss how we could leverage technology to this end.”
How It Works
The ICE Michiana program consists of two parts—an app for both iPhone and Android users and a tube for households without these smartphones.
For Smartphone Users
The ICE Michiana app for the iPhone and Android will provide a secure, digital format for storing patient identification, emergency contacts, and medical information. During an emergency, first responders can quickly review pertinent medical history on-scene and send time-sensitive information directly to participating emergency rooms (ERs). The push function also allows smartphone users to send their own information directly to a participating ER prior to their arrival. Note: During an emergency, call 911. “Specifically, this push technology sets the ICE Michiana app apart from other ICE apps available in the marketplace,” says Jason Jaronik, MD, SJRMC EMS medical director and Emergency Department physician. “Whether it’s a first responder or the incoming patient sending his or her information, both circumstances allow hospital teams to prepare as needed.”
Download the App Today! Search for ICE Michiana to download the free app on your phone. For more information, go to www.theiceapp.com. Free ICE Michiana tubes are available at distribution locations throughout Michiana. To find a pick-up location near you, go to www.theiceapp.com or call 1-800-914-9488.
No iPhone or Android?
The ICE Michiana tube serves as a way for individuals to store similar medical information and care directives inside the home. Inside the tube, families will find forms to fill out, as well as an ICE Michiana sticker to place inside a front window or door and an ICE Michiana magnet for a refrigerator door. Area first responders are trained to look for these identifiers and use the information inside while providing care. They will also bring the tube to the ER during transport.
For iPhone
For Android
ICE Michiana was developed through a grant received from The Foundation of Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center.
Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center I SJMED.COM
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