Memphis, TN — A preventative care program called "Safe 'til Stable," which is a cooperative venture between the National Bipolar Foundation and the MedicAlert Foundation, has been developed. It provides vital medical information to emergency responders in time of need through a live 24-hour emergency response service. In a medical emergency, this can help reduce the trauma experienced by individuals impacted with bipolar disorder.
If an individual experiences an event, first responders on the scene (e.g., law enforcement, emergency services personnel, etc.) will look for a medical ID with the "MEDIC ALERT" symbol. The "Safe 'til Stable" program is a milestone in that those with bipolar disorder will have a voice in times when they cannot speak for themselves and will be properly routed in times of emergency, providing a sense of security for the individual and those close to them.
This cooperative effort between The National Bipolar Foundation (NBPF) and the MedicAlert Foundation will have widespread impact on our society. Children, adolescents, and adults living with bipolar disorder who are involved in accidents and unable to speak for themselves will have the MedicAlert Emergency Services speaking for them, informing hospital staff and medical providers of their diagnoses, current medications in order to avoid potential dangerous withdrawal, and the acute onset of instability in regards to any symptoms of bipolar disorder.
Another major benefit of the program is that when a bipolar person is in an unforeseen incident, responders will react in an appropriate manner and will have the opportunity to defuse the situation or transport the person to an appropriate facility. The implementation of this program immediately creates jail diversion, benefiting all of society. The "Safe 'til Stable" program will benefit individuals wearing the identification jewelry, reduce stress on their families, and ultimately reduce the cost of their care for all taxpayers.
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