Why Are Medical IDs Critical?
Perhaps your doctor, nurse or pharmacist advised you
to obtain and always wear a medical ID. Why is it important?
- In an emergency, when you might not be able to speak
for yourself, a medical ID bracelet or necklace speaks
for you.
- Symptoms of common ailments can easily be misdiagnosed.
Prompt diagnosis is critical to effective treatment.
A brief description of vital medical facts engraved
on your medical ID ensures appropriate and timely
medical care.
- According to a published study, half of all medical
errors occur because of mistakes made upon admission
or discharge from the hospital. Wearing a medical
ID protects against potentially harmful medical errors.
- More than 95 percent of emergency responders look
for a medical ID; more than 75 percent check for a
medical ID immediately upon assessing the patient.
If you're wearing a medical ID, it won't be missed.
- Medical IDs eliminate trips to the hospital, reduce
unnecessary hospital admissions and prevent minor
emergencies from becoming major ones. Medical
IDs save lives! One day, a medical ID may save you.
Who Should Wear a Medical ID?
If you have ongoing medical conditions, drug or food
allergies, or are taking multiple medicines, you're
a candidate for a medical alert ID. An engraved medical
ID bracelet or necklace presenting a concise overview
of your conditions, allergies and medicines will alert
a doctor or medic before starting treatment. Informing
medical personnel about your unique medical conditions
and needs will greatly aid pre-hospital care.
 Below is a partial list of ailments or persons who
should wear
a medical ID:
- Food or drug allergies
- Heart patients (arrhythmias, pacemakers, etc.)
- Diabetes
- Alzheimer's/memory impairment
- On blood thinners (Coumadin/Warfarin)
- Pulmonary conditions (Asthma, COPD)
- Taking multiple medicines (prescribed and over-the-counter)
- Rare diseases
- Epilepsy/Seizures
- Hearing, sight or mentally impaired
- Transplant patients
- Clinical trial participants
- Special needs children
- Stroke risk
Some medical ailments demand a medical ID. If you're
unsure whether you need to wear a medical ID tag, consult
your physician or pharmacist. Or, if you prefer, contact
American Medical ID at 1-800-363-5985. |
