There are two main types of medical alert bracelets: custom engraved medical ID jewelry and medical alert systems.
Individuals with medical conditions such as diabetes, heart conditions, or major allergies can all benefit from wearing medical alert jewelry.
Here’s a quick rundown about each type of medical alerts and the situations in which they are most useful.
Custom Medical IDs
Custom medical IDs are particularly useful when you are out and about — in any setting where you may experience a medical emergency, but someone is around to call 911 for you. You may be unresponsive or otherwise unable to communicate with first responders, and bystanders may be unfamiliar with your medical history.
Because the first responders are also not familiar with your medical history, having a custom medical ID will provide them with crucial information that allow them to provide prompt treatment for your health condition.
An individual with diabetes might have severe hyperglycemia needs to receive oral glucose or intravenous/intramuscular dextrose promptly, as well as intranasal glucagon. Someone with an anaphylactic allergy to stinging insects needs to have epinephrine administered promptly to stop the anaphylaxis. Prompt treatment can save your life!
Medical Alert Systems
Medical alert systems are an emergency button that a person can press to request help 24/7. They are particularly useful for individuals who live by themselves or people with physical disabilities that affect their mobility. If an elderly person who uses a walker falls and is unable to get up or reach their phone to call for help, they can simply press their alert button to notify the company 24/7 and have them contact emergency services. Laying on the ground for hours or days causes muscle breakdown that can damage kidneys and result in dehydration and major skin issues.
Medical Alert Systems are usually available in a bracelet or discreet necklace that can be hidden under clothing. They are also fully waterproof so it can be worn in the shower, which is one of the most common places for falls to occur. However, medical alert systems have a limited range— often under 1,000 feet—which makes them only suitable for home use.
As you can see, it can be beneficial for individuals to have both a custom medical ID and a medical Alert system to keep you safe. The wide variety of custom medical IDs and necklaces available at American Medical ID make it easy to select the perfect option for you.
