Emergency Medical Plan for Parents of Special Needs Children

By Christina Vercelletto April 27, 2015

If you are the parent of a child with special needs, our (easy) emergency medical care checklist will put your mind at ease.

Being prepared for medical emergencies is important, of course, for any parent. But if you have a child with special needs, it is even more critical to take an extra step to make sure you're ready for unexpected urgent medical situations, whenever they happen, and wherever your child may be. The good news: It's not that hard.

First, go here to download The American College of Emergency Physicians’ Emergency Information Form for Children with Special Needs. It will give emergency medical care providers all the information they’ll need to care for your child.

Ask your child’s primary care pediatrician to fill out and sign the form. Remember to ask your pediatrician to update the form after any changes in your child’s diagnosis or medications, as well as after any surgery is performed. If you switch your child's doctor, have him or her fill out a new form.

Keep a copy of the latest version of the form in these places:

All healthcare providers’ offices, including specialists he or she may not see that often

Home, on the fridge, plus extras in an easily-accessible place to give to EMS or other emergency workers if necessary

All family cars, in the glove compartment

Both parents’ workplaces

Both parents’ wallets or briefcases

School nurse’s office

Daycare center and/or other caregivers, such as homes of babysitters, after-school programs, and camps. Don't forget the home of that friend on your block he or she spends a lot of time with.

Home of the emergency contact person you list on the form