MCHD joins MCSO is assisting those with cognitive issues 04.17.26
April 17, 2026
MCHD joins MCSO is assisting those with cognitive issues
MOBILE, Ala. — The Mobile County Health Department is reminding residents that Alabama’s Autism Identification Card and the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office’s Project Lifesaver program can help protect vulnerable individuals and support faster, more informed emergency responses.
Created in 2022, Alabama’s Autism Identification Card is the first state-recognized card of its kind in the nation. The card is available through the Mobile County Health Department’s Vital Statistics office, located at 251 North Bayou Street in Mobile, and is intended to help individuals on the autism spectrum during potentially stressful interactions with first responders and law enforcement.
The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office also offers Project Lifesaver, a free program designed to help locate individuals who may wander from home. The program uses a wristband transmitter and specialized search-and-rescue equipment to quickly track and identify participants. The average rescue takes less than 20 minutes, saving valuable time and public resources.
“Project Lifesaver is more than a tracking program — it provides peace of mind for families and an added layer of safety for our community. Together with the autism card, it helps first-responders act quickly when a loved one goes missing. When every minute matters, programs like these can make all the difference,” said Dr. Kevin Michaels, Health Officer of Mobile County.
Project Lifesaver can be especially helpful for caregivers of loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, autism, Down syndrome, or related disorders who may be at risk of wandering. If a participant goes missing, the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office is notified, and its search team deploys specialized equipment to locate the individual using the wristband’s unique frequency.
The Autism Identification Card explains that the cardholder is on the autism spectrum and may have difficulty communicating, understanding directions, or becoming agitated if touched because of a medical condition. Before a card is issued, a health care provider such as a psychologist, pediatrician, or family practice physician must verify the diagnosis. The card also includes contact information for someone who can confirm the diagnosis and offer information that may help calm the individual.
The Autism Spectrum Disorder Card Registration Form is available at the following website — https://www.alabamapublichealth.gov/disability/assets/autismspecdiscardregform.pdf. It may be printed and brought to any county health department. Adult drivers must apply in person and bring a government-issued driver’s license. The fee is $10. For Autism Identification Card information, call 251-690-8150.
For Project Lifesaver information, email projectlifesaver@mobileso.com or call 251-574-8735.