by Donna D. McMillan, Island Organizers

    As a childhood Girl Scout, I learned so many life lessons - such as “Being Prepared.” That motto means to always be in readiness to do your duty.  As a longtime Professional Organizer, I’ve seen via countless client experiences, how valuable it is to be ready for disasters and medical emergencies. They usually happen without warning, anytime and anywhere. 

    "That'll never happen to me," people believe. They just don't want to think about the possibility! In reality, it's better to be prepared and never need it. According to AARP, a medical emergency can be a frightening, all-too-frequent experience that few people are prepared for. Are you??? 

    Recently, a client was unexpectedly told that she was to have surgery in six days. We helped her to get ready by organizing …

     • VIP (very important paperwork): Advance Directive, Power of Attorney, current list of drugs/supplements, allergies, eyeglasses prescription, up-to-date medical history, health insurance card, drivers license and credit card.
     • People: inform key persons of plans, list of personal & professional contacts, phone numbers & email addresses: family, friends, doctors, insurance agents, and ICE (in case of emergency) contacts added to cell phone. Appoint one or two organized individuals to assist and manage: tasks, people, research and paperwork while recovering.
     • Tasks: pay bills in advance and keep list handy, do bank deposits, get cash, backup digital data, ensure business will continue, do laundry and prepare home for absence, pack personal bag & electronic equipment for hospital.
     • Post-Op: grocery list, supplies & home medical equipment list, Home Care services if required, schedule friends/helpers to visit at hospital & home. Set-up a portable file to collect medical paperwork, etc. 

    All vital personal and legal documents should be updated frequently and stored together in a safe, convenient location. Inform loved ones of access to emergency documents. Make copies for special people or use & give access to a web service like SafelyFiled. Create ongoing lists of questions to ask doctors, insurance agents and other professionals who can help and support. 

    Organizing all of this, for some, is time-consuming, overwhelming and emotional. Are you prepared? Got other tips for our readers? Share a Comment.

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Resources:

Hear our Teleclass: Your Disaster Plan Is Not Just A Kit

Get a discount on SafelyFiled & Learn about SafelyMD

Contact Us:  808-943-2053 & 310-391-7392