PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — A newly introduced program in Prince William County could save lives.
On Tuesday, the Prince William County Fire and Rescue System introduced the File of Life Program. A community initiative designed to enable fire and rescue personnel the ability to obtain a quick and accurate medical history of a patient when that patient or a family member is unable to provide one.
Officials say the “File of Life” information card provides an area to list contact information for the patient’s doctor, family members, insurance information and any other special circumstances that rescue personnel should know in caring for the patient.
“During an emergency, the File of Life is an additional communication tool that enables first responders to quickly access a patient’s vital medical history when a patient cannot do so.“ said Chief Tom LaBelle.
In addition, the File of Life has a place for noting a person's DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order. Officials say a Do Not Resuscitate Order is a legal order, signed by a physician instructing medical professionals to withhold CPR, or other interventions if a person’s heart or breathing stops. The File of Life is not a valid DNR though so participants are encouraged to record, on the File of Life card, the location of their original DNR to help healthcare providers when administering emergency care.
Officials say any information provided on the File of Life card should be completed in English and in pencil. The card itself is enclosed in a clear magnetic pouch, for placement on the outside of the refrigerator.
The File of Life cards are available in English and Spanish online at pwcva.gov/department/fire-rescue. For additional information, please contact Public Education Coordinator Christopher Brothers at 703-792-7736 or cbrothers@pwcgov.org.
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