A "file of life" is a simple, physical folder or card first responders are trained to look for in many regions — often on the refrigerator via a labeled magnet.
What to include
- Current medications and dosages
- Allergies
- Primary doctor and specialists, with phone numbers
- Health care proxy's name and number
- Existing conditions relevant to emergency treatment
- Preferred hospital, if you have one
Update it every time your medications change — an outdated list can be actively misleading in an emergency, not just unhelpful.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Discuss your specific medical situation and any advance directives with your physician.