Mr Christopher Radbone1
1MedicAlert, Adelaide, Australia
Background: In emergency situations, providing paramedics with quick access at the point of care to a patient’s medical information can be critical. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Queensland Ambulance Service sought improved timely access and recommended an alternative be considered to the MedicAlert’s 24/7 Phone Relay Service.
Methods: MedicAlert conducted a proof-of-concept trial testing the feasibility, robustness and durability of using QR codes on Medical IDs to provide paramedics with instant access, anytime and anywhere, to patient health records via their smartphone. Privacy-by-design principles were incorporated to ensure patient confidentiality and data security. Feedback from paramedics was also sought to determine the essential health information needed for different clinical care situations.
Results: The solution, known as ‘Smart MedID’, was found to be highly effective in providing instant access to critical patient health information. This included care plan documentation such as end-of-life directives, and severe drug and food allergies. The Smart MedID service uses QR codes that can be scanned using any smartphone, ensuring reliable and universal access to patient health records.
Conclusions: Smart MedID has revolutionised the traditional MedicAlert service, providing paramedics and other healthcare professionals instant access to patient health information in emergency situations, especially where a patient is not fully conscious or is distressed. The service is reliable, secure, and accessible through any smartphone, making it a valuable tool for enhancing pre-hospital care and emergency response.
Biography:
For over 40 years Chris has managed information and technology services, delivering value to healthcare, aged care, government, and research organisations. As a member of the Australasian Institute of Digital Health, and Fellow Australian Computer Society Fellow, he has led key collaborative initiatives across non-for-profit charity, government and university sectors.