MED Alert Bracelets

People with severe allergies to latex or common drugs such as penicillin should wear an identifying tag in case of emergencies and to remind all health care providers of the condition. Other conditions that could prove fatal if the wrong medication were delivered include people with asthma, diabetes and blood disorders. Individuals suffering from Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and cystic fibrosis will want to alert providers about their situation in emergency situations.

Generic medical alert bracelets are available over the counter in pharmacies for common medical issues. Custom bracelets can be purchased from a variety of online companies, including American Medical ID and Med IDs.com. The jewelry is engraved with the name of the person as well as the vital medical alert information. Bracelets come in a variety of forms, from bands to loose hanging bangles.

Physicians and first responders are trained to look for MED alert bracelets and medallions worn around the neck. Those with the medical emblem on them are often easier for health care responders to see. Athletes and children with special medical needs make ideal candidates for medical alert bracelets and watches. They often are incapable of providing important health information if they are incapacitated or unconscious. Seniors with memory problems also should be equipped with the life-saving jewelry.

Medic Alert is a nonprofit organization that provides members with bracelets to give treating physicians access to a patient's medical records. The bracelet sold to members of Medic Alert have an identification number on them that directs health care providers to a website that contains the Patient Health Records (PHR) for that person. Rather than rely on medical histories taken when a patient may be in pain or under physical duress, the Medic Alert system can be trusted to provide the necessary information. For less than $40 per year, individuals can keep their database updated with the technology available at Medic Alert. Costs for the engraved bracelets range from $20 for a basic stainless steel model to watches for $140 and 14K gold bracelets that sell for up to $600.

Caregivers who are responsible for medically dependent people can wear MED alert bracelets to alert others to the importance of contacting the dependent. More sophisticated medical alert bracelets come equipped with alarm systems that can be activated when the wearer needs assistance. Medical response can be sent quickly any time of day when the alarm is pressed. For owners whose animals have special needs, medical alert jewelry is also available for pets.