What is a wellness check?

A wellness check is a proactive, non-emergency visit from a healthcare professional or emergency services to assess the well-being of an individual. It's different from an emergency response; it's used when there's concern about someone's safety or well-being, but not necessarily an immediate life-threatening situation.

Here's what you should know about wellness checks:

Reasons for a Wellness Check:

• Concern for an elderly person living alone: A family member might request a check if they haven't heard from their loved one in a while.
• Concerns about a person's mental health: Friends or family might request a check if someone is exhibiting signs of depression, suicidal ideation, or other concerning behaviors.
• Following a hospital discharge: To ensure a smooth transition back home and to address any potential post-discharge complications.
• Concerns about a person's general well-being: If someone is known to be isolated, vulnerable, or experiencing difficulty managing their daily life.
• Suspicious or unusual behavior: Neighbors or community members might report concerning behavior that warrants a check.

Who can request a wellness check?

Anyone can request a wellness check, though the specific procedures might vary depending on location. Generally, you can contact:

• Local police department: This is often the primary point of contact for wellness checks.
• Fire department: Some areas have fire departments that also conduct wellness checks.
• Emergency medical services (EMS): While generally for emergencies, they may respond to wellness checks depending on the situation.
• Healthcare provider: Your doctor or other healthcare professional might initiate a wellness check if they have concerns about a patient.

What happens during a wellness check?

The specifics vary, but generally, a responder will:

• Contact the individual: They will attempt to make contact with the person at the address provided.
• Assess the situation: They will visually assess the person's condition and environment.
• Speak with the individual: They'll ask questions to determine their well-being, needs, and any potential risks.
• Provide assistance if needed: This could include connecting them with resources such as mental health services, social services, or medical care.
• Document the visit: A report will likely be created detailing the visit and its findings.

Important Considerations:

• False alarms are possible: While wellness checks are important, they should not be misused or made frivolously.
• Legal considerations: Privacy laws and consent issues may apply, particularly if the person refuses assistance. Generally, entry into a residence without consent requires a warrant or probable cause of immediate danger.
• Response time: Response times can vary depending on the urgency and availability of resources.

If you are concerned about someone's well-being, it's always better to err on the side of caution and request a wellness check. It could save a life.