Interactive emergency information card launches in Shropshire

It gives 999 crews instant access to medical details such as blood type and medication, as well as identification and contact numbers.

The digital card – called QrTY Emergency – is the brainchild of Greg Hughes, director of Telford-based telecommunications firm Netronix.

Greg came up with the idea after his brother was badly injured in a hit-and-run accident.

“Paramedics were quick on the scene, but my brother had no identification with him and doctors at the hospital did not know who he was or anything about his medical background,” said Greg.

“This lack of knowledge led to him being given conflicting medication that almost proved fatal.”

Emergency crews can gain vital information from the cards within seconds by using a QR – Quick Response – code scanner on their smartphones.

The cards have been endorsed by the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. Corporate fundraising manager Stef Langford-Brown said: “We are delighted to be involved with the QrTY Emergency card at such an early stage.

“Nearly half of the incidents we attend are road traffic accidents, and having patient information at the scene can help our paramedics do their job even better.

“The card will undoubtedly help us to save lives, by saving time.”

Backing has also come from Bob Brotchie, director and founder of the ICE (In Case of Emergency) initiative, which encourages people to add an ICE contact to the address book in their mobile phones.

Bob said: “With the new surge in smartphones and technologies, the guys at QrTY really have taken a great idea and used it practically and in a way that could actually save lives.”

The QrTY Emergency card is the same size as a credit card and fits easily into a wallet or purse.

Data is stored securely on Netronix’s servers and can be updated at any time without the need for replacement cards. In the event of loss or theft, the card can be deactivated instantly.

For further information please visit www.qrty.net