DeKalb Memorial Hospital fights medical errors with patient outreach program NEW Medication List Program Launches "Have You Been Carded?" Auburn--More than ten years ago, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) issued a safety report titled "To Err is Human," which stated 2.9-3.7 percent of hospitalizations in the United States result in adverse events. They estimated 44,000-98,000 hospitalized patients die annually due to medical errors.
At DeKalb Memorial Hospital, quality has long been one of its hallmarks. They work to ensure error-free patient care in many ways, such as providing our physicians, nurses and staff with procedures, training and record-keeping with quality in mind. But one of the most important things a patient can to do to protect his or herself from medical errors is simple, free and within his or her own control.
By carrying a medication list and other critical medical information at all times, a patient can prevent medical errors simply by ensuring that all health care providers have the information they need easily accessible in an emergency. This is especially important in the case of an illness or injury which has resulted in the inability to communicate or unconsciousness.
To this end, DeKalb Memorial has launched a new outreach program called simply, "Medication List Program." They are working with local pharmacies and other health care providers throughout the community to provide medication information cards to the public. These cards — available at no charge — will help consolidate an individual’s prescription list and other critical health information in one portable, easy-to-use resource.
When completing the cards, patients should list everything they take — including over-the-counter medications, vitamins and herbal supplements — even if they only take them occasionally. Frequency and dosage should be noted, as well as the length of time they have taken the medication. Most importantly, the list must be kept up to date. Providing an out-of-date medical record will not help a health care provider in an emergency. Maintaining this resource regularly is important as prescriptions or medical conditions change.
In addition to providing the cards, DeKalb Memorial staff are now available to assist area residents in completing the cards. If you would like more information or would like to schedule a staff member to assist you with this free service, call Vickie Faux, RN, CDE, WCC at 260.920.2652. Check the hospital Web site at dekalbmemorial.com for new event listings.
Medication cards are now available at the following locations: Pharmacies: Kroger (Auburn), Walmart (Auburn), CVS (Auburn and Butler)
DeKalb Memorial Hospital
DeKalb Memorial Outpatient Clinic
St. Martin’s Healthcare Clinic (Garrett) Local physician offices located on DeKalb Memorial campus
DeKalb Medical Services (Butler)
DeKalb Medical Services (Garrett) Upcoming Medication List Program dates and times:
Every Monday (Except Holidays) 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Heimach Center
1800 E. Seventh St., Auburn
Monday, July 12, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Knoll Creek Apartments
300 Knoll Creek Dr., Waterloo
Wednesday, July 21, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
St. Martin's Clinic
1359 S. Randolph St., Garrett
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