Medical Alert Bracelets 101

Medical Alert Bracelet Variations

Medical alert bracelets, not to be confused with a medication alert bracelet, are wearable medical alert devices that can be worn as bracelets, similar to smartwatches and fitness trackers. These medical bracelets are designed to be durable, comfortable and waterproof so that help can be sought even in the shower, where falls due to slipping are very common.

But they also come in different variations – some bracelets act as id bracelets made out of stainless steel. There is no two-way communication between the medical id and 911. The main benefit to these medical id bracelets are to let first responders know about any medical condition or diseases that the wearer might have. These id tags can also save time and lives especially when the wearer is unconscious.

How Do They Work?

Most systems come with a call or panic button. In case of an emergency or critical situation, users can simply press the alarm button on their emergency bracelet to send out help signals to emergency response services of the alert device company or the common emergency services of the country (monitored or non-monitored). Generally, users are linked to trained professionals at the company’s response center, which works 24/7 to provide users with round-the-clock monitoring and support. Most professionals stay on call until help reaches the patient.

All it takes is the push of a button to potentially save lives! Wireless/cellular-based bracelets have gained popularity as they operate on cellphone networks, allowing a wider field of functionality and more security (they can be used anytime and anywhere).

Who Can Use Them?

Though these alert bracelets can be used by anyone, they’re especially useful for people who have serious medical conditions. For example, in the case of allergies, healthcare professionals can know what allergy it is thanks to the information stored on the device and administer treatments quickly and effectively; this can also prevent wrong treatment that may worsen the patient’s condition. It’s also extremely useful to young children when they’re in school or going on a school trip and so on.

They can also be used by the elderly for overall protection from age-related issues such as falls, slips, age-related conditions and so on.

Benefits

Apart from the immediate and round-the-clock access to emergency medical services, these bracelets store vital information that helps healthcare professionals. It also gives users and their families peace of mind. Even specific directions/instructions can be included in the bracelet. Some bracelets also come equipped with additional services such as medication alerts and access to even law enforcement and fire services.

What Medical Conditions Require A Medical Alert Bracelet?

• Any allergies to food, medicines or insects
• Epilepsy
• Cardiac conditions
• Respiratory ailments
• Failure of the kidneys or liver
• Diabetes