The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) this month launched the Yellow DOT Program, which is designed to assist first responders in identifying vital medical information for senior drivers. The program features yellow stickers placed in the bottom left side of the rear window of vehicles and yellow envelopes containing a photo, medical history, and prescription drug information for glove compartments.
The program will allow emergency personnel to make the most of what’s known as the “golden hour,” the first hour after an injury or medical emergency during which medical treatment can dramatically increase a patient’s chances for survival. Once a Yellow DOT sticker is identified on a vehicle, first responders will know to check the glove compartment for the Yellow DOT information packet.
“This program will help police and other first responders by giving them quick access to potentially life-saving medical information within minutes of a car crash,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer. “It can also help in efforts to identify victims and personalize their treatment.”
The Tennessee General Assembly unanimously passed a bill supporting a Tennessee Yellow DOT Program in 2012. The sponsors of the Senate and House bills were Sen. Jim Tracy (R-Shelbyville) and Rep. Curtis Halford (R-Dyer).
“There are more than a million and a half licensed drivers in Tennessee who are over the age of 55, and that number will continue to grow,” said Sen. Tracy. “This program provides a great opportunity for older drivers to update their medical information and have a voice in their emergency treatment.”
Rep. Halford said, “The Yellow DOT program doesn’t just save time at the scene of a crash, it can also improve communication between field personnel and hospital emergency staff. I urge senior drivers to take advantage of this free service.”
While the program is geared towards senior drivers, it can be beneficial for anyone with medical issues. There is no cost associated with signing up for the program. For more information about the program, visit www.tdot.state.tn.us/yellowdot/.
The Hamilton County sign-up location is Siskin Hospital, located at One Siskin Plaza in Chattanooga.
Source: TDOT