Obtaining accurate medical information can be crucial, especially for patients unable to communicate with responders.
To that end, firefighter-medic Joseph O’Brien and Capt. Abel Soto, both with the Green Valley (Ariz.) Fire District, developed a device that any responder with a smart phone can use to access securely store important information like medications and allergies within seconds.
The two formed Meditrac to bring their idea to market.
“This program provides an opportunity for more effective and efficient EMS services by providing critical patient information in a timely manner,” GVFD Fire Chief Chuck Wunder said. “This tool will improve communications between our patients, the fire department, the hospitals and improve patient outcomes.”
We caught up with O’Brien to learn more about his company.
How does it work?
Meditrac ID is a QR Code and near field communication-based medical ID. This QR Code ID carried by the patient is in the form of either a wallet ID card or can be worn as a wristband or shoe tag. Any medical responder that has a QR Code app on their smart phone or tablet can scan the patient’s medical ID QR Code. The patient’s medical profile can then be viewed in less than 30 seconds by any emergency responder while on scene.
We also have developed a sticker pack that features stickers for the refrigerator, helmets, walkers, and wheelchairs. In addition, we have also created a light switch cover that responders can scan or bump with their smart device as soon as they enter a home.
Where did the idea come from?
A few of us were brainstorming one day and discussing some frustrations we had as paramedics obtaining accurate medical information. We felt the biggest hurdle in on-scene treatment of a patient was quickly and accurately acquiring patient information.
We decided to test the medical IDs that were on the market. We did field tests with the other electronic devices and soon discovered these devices were not able to provide the necessary information that first responders need in a medical emergency. We then decided that we need to create a platform that allows uploading of vital documents such as DNR orders, power of attorney paperwork, MRI’s and X-Rays.
What issues did you run into?
We met quite a bit of resistance in regards to HIPAA. We felt it was important to bring a medical ID to market that took these security and privacy guidelines serious. We did our research and ensured that we met all of the requirements set forth by federal guidelines to maintain compliance in regards to patients’ privacy standards.
How did the idea turn into a product?
We asked our fellow firefighters, EMTs, paramedics and doctors what information they felt was important while on scene. We refined our product to its present form. And with some financial backing and perseverance, we developed a product that we feel is best suited for EMS.
How did your firefighting/paramedic backgrounds contribute?
Having worked in the field over the years, I felt that during a true medical emergency the clock is always ticking. A lot of emergencies occur away from the patient’s residence. And almost always during these emergencies away from home, the patient is unable to give the paramedics all the necessary information. With Meditrac ID, this valuable information is more comprehensive and is always with the patient.
What has been the response from fellow firefighters and paramedics?
They feel this is a valuable tool that can quickly help treat the patient while on scene. They can also forward this information to the receiving emergency room electronically. They can also send text messages to the patient’s emergency contacts to let them know what has happened to their loved ones. They also like the feature of viewing the patient’s baseline EKG or the patients DNR.
Firefighters have said the Meditrac ID gives back to their organization and community and is not a corporate money monger. They create fair programs that allow districts to obtain equipment, training or even scholarships for personnel to attend higher education.
Are you offering the product to the public?
Yes, in early February Meditrac ID had a public launch. We feel it has been well received. It has been receiving significant interest from independent living facilities.
How much does it cost?
The basic cost of the ID is $39.99. This includes the initial set up and entering the patient’s medical profile into the server.
After the first year of service, the customer’s account is billed $19.99 for each year after that.
What is the future of Meditrac ID?
We will be working over the next year to hopefully create integrations with fire departments reporting software to auto-populate reports and ensure accurate communication and data.
It’s technology and you have to move fast to keep the competitive edge. We hope to build five to 10 more alternative revenue programs across the nation with interested fire departments and EMS organizations.
We will be working with these communities to integrate Health IT systems to allow the patient to become the HUB of health care. We’re already building new technology that will allow Meditrac ID to be integrated with wearable technology, bio-metrics and facial recognition.
