Irving, TX - The Boy Scouts of America has implimented a new medical form for immediate adoption and use. Based on input from individual Scouters, the Order of the Arrow, local councils, health and safety and risk management committees, and high-adventure bases, there was confusion on when to use any of more than 20 different health forms in use across the nation. There was also an immediate need to update a medical form for the 2010 National Scout Jamboree. The Health and Safety Committee took on the challenge and the opportunity to establish one Annual Health and Medical Record for all ages and known risks. It is simple and yet comprehensive enough to be used for both health and wellness evaluations as well as emergency situations.

Everyone should begin using the Annual Health and Medical Record immediately. The existing stock of Class 1, 2, and 3 forms can continue to be used while supplies last in 2009. The only supported form effective January 1, 2010, is the Annual Health and Medical Record. Its use will be mandatory for the 2009 National Order of the Arrow Conference and 2010 National Scout Jamboree.

The new Annual Health and Medical Record [Prints on single 8.5 x 11 sheets] [Prints on 11 x 17 sheets] and has a comprehensive FAQ concerning the new Annual Health and Medical Record Form. Further questions can be directed to the Heath & Safety Team at http://community.scouting.org (In the GROUPS area look under the National category for the "Scouting Safely - Health and Safety and Risk Management" Group. Richard Bourlon of the Health & Safety Team at National is an active member.