Emergency Medical Plan for Parents of Special Needs Children

If you are the parent of a child with special needs, our (easy) emergency medical care checklist will put your mind at ease.

Being prepared for medical emergencies is important, of course, for any parent. But if you have a child with special needs, it is even more critical to take an extra step to make sure you're ready for unexpected urgent medical situations, whenever they happen, and wherever your child may be. The good news: It's not that hard.

First, go here to download The American College of Emergency Physicians’ Emergency Information Form for Children with Special Needs. It will give emergency medical care providers all the information they’ll need to care for your child.

Ask your child’s primary care pediatrician to fill out and sign the form. Remember to ask your pediatrician to update the form after any changes in your child’s diagnosis or medications, as well as after any surgery is performed. If you switch your child's doctor, have him or her fill out a new form.