On June 18, 2019 the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) launched a partnership with the MedicAlert foundation Canada. The OPP is supporting the MedicAlert Connect Protect service to assist vulnerable persons and/or caregivers of vulnerable people to voluntarily submit vital information to a database that can be accessed by dispatchers when requested by police officers.
MedicAlert offers a one-of-a-kind service endorsed by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP), which gives police officers quick 24/7 direct access to a MedicAlert subscriber's information. Information includes client's demographic and caregiver information, physical description, wandering history, possible wandering locations (if prone to wander or bolt), behaviour management strategies including anxiety triggers and de-escalation techniques and an up-to-date photo. This information will be useful to OPP members when dealing with an emergency involving a subscriber. Dispatchers from each Provincial Communication Centre (PCC) will be trained on how to access and use the MedicAlert database.
MedicAlert has a fee of $60 a year for clients to register. However, clients can receive this service for free if they are unable to pay.
Who is considered a vulnerable person? |
- Individuals with autism
- Individuals with mental health challenges
- Individuals with developmental disabilities
- Individuals with Alzheimer's or dementia
- Individuals with brain injury
- Individuals with fetal alcohol syndrome disorder
- Individuals with a rare disease
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To register a vulnerable person of any age, visit the MedicAlert Connect Protect website.