Who can use an epinephrine auto-injector?
For many years physicians have prescribe the epinephrine auto-injector to patients with known allergies. Many people carry the unit with them. Recently Governor Pataki signed into law a bill that authorizes the possession and use of an epinephrine auto-injector by certain individuals in children’s overnight, summer day or traveling summer day camps and others. This allows Camp Staff to administer epinephrine to patients with a history of allergies/allergic reactions who has a severe allergic reaction even if the patient doesn’t have his/her prescribed auto-injector with them. To be authorized to possess and use the epinephrine auto-injector an individual or organization (as noted above) must have a written collaborative agreement with a physician “emergency health care provider” which is filed with the local Regional Emergency Medical Services Council and the Department of Health. All participating individuals must complete this or an equivalent training program.
