What happens in emergency situations requiring immediate attention for you or one of your loved ones? How do paramedics know about your current health condition and how to treat you without wasting precious time? What if there is no one who can explain the person’s condition?
There are plenty of other situations that make a medical alert necklace or bracelet important. These items let healthcare providers and first responders understand your condition and act accordingly.
Below are some things to consider before choosing a medical ID necklace or bracelet.
Identify your needs
The right size and shape of necklace depends on your medical needs and also your tastes. Whatever type of medical alert jewelry you choose, it should include relevant information such as your personal details and health information.
Keep your condition in mind
Whether you’re purchasing engraved dog tags or a life alert bracelet, you need to make sure your condition can be clearly read and understood. Items that could impede treatment should also be considered. For example, jewelry such as a long necklace may not be best for someone with heart issues.
Analyze your care requirements
What kind and level of care you need? What sorts of actions should be taken in case of an emergency? The details will decide what should be added on the ID.
For example, someone with a rare blood type will require that specific type for blood transfusion, and someone with diabetes should inform bystanders for a quick intervention.
Consider complementary information
Depending on your health conditions and needs, decide if you need to purchase an ID necklace or bracelet with add-on features. For instance doctor and family notification systems to correspond with health information delivery companies.
Besides adding the common essentials like your name, emergency contact numbers, and medical information telling the first responders how best to care for you in emergencies, you can also purchase jewelry that links to an online medical file.
This is particularly beneficial if you are seeing multiple doctors or physicians, or if your medical history has undergone many frequent changes.
Normally, your medical documents might include downloaded medical records, healthcare directives, living wills, power of attorney forms, and your medical journal.
Buying medical alert jewelry
Buying a medical alert necklace or engraved dog tags is an important step in advocating for yourself and your health in the event of an emergency. Below are some steps to take when purchasing medical jewelry.
- Browse different companies to see prices
- Select a comfortable style
- Select the right material for your skin
- Double check the item before buying
- Read and fill out the order form carefully
Medical necklaces come in various sizes, shapes, comfort, and for different use cases.
For instance, you might need the item for day use only, or 24/7 care, or for specific activities like workouts and swimming. Or you might prefer interchangeable or non-interchangeable straps or chains. Most modern medical jewelry comes in materials like stainless steel, gold, sterling silver, titanium, and medical grade silicone.
