Do you have ICE in your cell phone? ICE stands for “in case of emergency”—a phone number that medical professionals can use to get vital information when a patient arrives unconscious or unable to answer questions.
Save at least two numbers and be sure that both contacts are familiar with your medical history. They can be saved as "ICE - 1" and "ICE - 2" or with names such as "ICE - Mom." In all cases, the "ICE" designation should come first.
The Pennsylvania Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians and the Pennsylvania Medical Society suggest that you carry a hard copy summary of your medical history that includes the following information:
- Current medications including herbal and organic supplements.
- All known allergies to medications and foods
- Names and phone numbers of doctors (or medical providers) responsible for your regular care.
Please remember that neither "ICE" nor wallet-based information should be considered substitutes for medical alert bracelets and necklaces that also provide critical medical information.