Happy Monday, Friends! I hope this post finds you well. But if you happen to have a chronic illness or allergy, have you considered purchasing a medical ID bracelet?
There are many reasons why you should wear a medical ID bracelet if you have a serious allergy or chronic illness. Did you know that 95% of emergency responders check for a medical alert bracelet or necklace? Wearing one can ensure precise and timely treatment in the event of an emergency.
So who should wear a medical ID identifier? People with heart disease, diabetes, alzheimer’s, epilepsy, or food or drug allergies should wear one. It’s also a good idea for children with peanut allergies or other life threatening illnesses. Also people taking certain medications are advised to wear a medical identifier.
Recently I ordered an ID bracelet from American Medical ID (www.identifyyourself.com) for a loved one. I ordered a stainless steel bracelet. Not only is stainless steel low maintenance, but it can be worn at all times and is waterproof and rust proof. Make sure when you order to measure the wrist so you get the correct size. It’s much easier to remove a link or two than add one. The bracelet I ordered was slightly too large so I took it to my local jeweler. They removed two links and didn’t charge me a dime! (Thank you @Carroll’s Jeweler!)
I have a serious allergy, so it’s wise for me to wear a bracelet to identify my condition. I ordered a small, but pretty sterling silver emergency alert bracelet with a heart shaped charm. On the front of the heart is the Rod of Asclepius with one snake on a staff inside the star of life. (I googled the medical symbol and this is what Wikipedia shared.) Not to be confused with the Caduceus, which is 2 snakes on a staff surmounted by wings. Both symbols are of healing and medicine despite the obvious irony. (fun fact of the day).
On the back of the heart charm is my emergency information. Because the heart is small there is only room for a few lines of information. Mine has my name, date of birth and my allergy. If you have a more serious condition, I would recommend a larger bracelet so you can fit more information on the cuff. This sterling silver bracelet is about $61.00.
Several family members have diabetes and are insulin dependent which is another great reason to wear a bracelet. For example, in the case of low blood sugar sometimes people pass out or get very disoriented. If they are wearing a medical alert bracelet then a medical professional knows exactly the course of treatment without losing valuable time.
So, what is the best information to put on a medical ID bracelet? After some research, here’s what I found.
1-Full Name
2-Condition (Such as Type 1 Diabetes or name of allergy or illness)
3-Contact information (Such as parent or spouse’s cell phone number)
4-Prescriptions currently taking for condition (Such as the names of the insulin or medications)
5-Blood type
6-Date of Birth
7-Name of Doctor (I didn’t add this since doctors probably change more often than the other information)
This bracelet is one of their best sellers and I can see why. It has a sturdy clasp and has room on the front and back for plenty of vital information. These start as low as $22 making them very affordable.
There are many other options than bracelets. For instance you can order a card for your wallet, or purchase a necklace or dog tag style necklace that might be more hip for the younger crowd. I read some reviews from people who purchased these identifiers and one consistent complaint was the silver plate scratches easily. But to me, that is to be expected with normal wear and tear. So far my family has been very pleased with their bracelets.
Once you order a bracelet from American Medical, they include a postcard with the engraved information. If you take the card to your doctor, she or he can sign off on it and put it in your file. Help keep your loved ones protected and give them their own medical ID bracelet or necklace. It could save their life!
I hope you have a great day! Stay warm and safe! Thanks so much for stopping by! xoxo Dell