Here’s How a Medical Alert Bracelet or a Wearable Health Information Device May Help Save Your Life

Medical alert bracelets are also known as medical identification (ID) bracelets. They are an important tool for people with medical conditions that may need emergency medical attention. Medical alert bracelets provide crucial information about your medical history and medications. This can help medical providers know how to treat you if you are ever unconscious, confused, or unable to speak.

How do medical alert bracelets work?

Medical alert bracelets are designed to be easily recognized by healthcare workers. Usually on the front of the bracelet is the international symbol of medicine, a staff with a snake wrapped around it. This symbol alerts medical staff that you have important medical information to review.

When a medical emergency occurs, first responders will usually look for a medical alert bracelet. This is especially true if you are not able to communicate well.

What information is usually included on a medical alert bracelet?

Space on a medical alert bracelet is limited, so it is not possible to include all of the wearer’s medical information. Only the most crucial information is inscribed, including your:

• Name: This is the most important piece of information on the bracelet, as it lets medical professionals know who they are treating.

• Medical conditions: It will have a short, clear description of your medical conditions listed, such as “Type 1 diabetes.”

• Medications: It’s important for providers to know if a medication you’re taking might make it hard for you to communicate. 

• Allergies: Allergies to medications, foods, or other substances can be clearly listed.

• Emergency contact information: It should include the name and contact information for a family member or close friend who can be reached in case of an emergency.

What health conditions usually require a medical alert bracelet?

Almost anyone with a chronic medical condition could benefit from using a medical alert bracelet. Some common conditions that can require a medical alert bracelet include:

• Dementia, Alzheimer’s, autism, or developmental disabilities 

• Conditions that make it hard to communicate such as hearing loss or speech issues 

• Heart disease

• Diabetes

• Lupus

• Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)

• Malignant hyperthermia (allergy to anesthesia)

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What abbreviations are most commonly used on medical alert bracelets?

There are about 100 different abbreviations that are used on medical alert bracelets. Some of the most common abbreviations and their meanings include:

• ALGY: allergy

• T2D: Type 2 diabetes

• T1D: Type 1 diabetes

• IDDM: Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus

• PCN: Penicillin allergy

• ICE: In case of emergency

• AF or AFib: Atrial fibrillation

• LVAD: Left ventricular assist device

• DNR: Do not resuscitate

• EPI: EpiPen

Bracelets are custom-made based on your particular medical condition. The abbreviations are standard so that emergency responders can accurately interpret your information.

What are other options for wearable medical alert devices?

Medical alert devices are similar in that they are wearable (as a bracelet, necklace, or watch). But traditional medical alert bracelets do not communicate electronically. Other medical alert options may be able to notify someone if you’re having trouble by pressing a button on the device.

A remote person gets the alert and can reach out to confirm if you need help. If you don’t respond, or say that you need help, they will send emergency responders to your location. Some devices may also be able to tell if you’ve fallen, even if you aren’t able to push the button. These systems rely on a cellular or Wi-Fi signal. There is usually an initial set-up cost and then a monthly monitoring fee.

How much do medical bracelets cost?

The cost of medical ID bracelets varies. The least expensive ones are like silicone sports bands. They come pre-embossed with basic information and can cost as little as $5. 

In general, you can expect to spend about $25 to $50 to get a customized stainless steel bracelet. But if you prefer real gold or silver, you can spend several hundred dollars getting a customized bracelet.

Most electronic systems are not covered by insurance. But you can check with resources like Medicare, Medicaid, and local agencies to see if financial help is available. You may be able to offset costs using a health savings account (HSA) or Medicare medical savings account (MSA), or Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage). 

Medical alert bracelets are readily available. They can be purchased through many vendors on the internet. Most pharmacies offer customizable medical bracelets and necklaces. 

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Written by:

Frank Schwalbe, MD

Frank Schwalbe, MD, is an assistant professor of anesthesiology at the Yale School of Medicine. He has practiced anesthesiology for 30 years.

Edited by:

Karla Robinson, MD

Karla Robinson, MD, is a medical editor for GoodRx. She is a licensed, board-certified family physician with almost 20 years of experience in health through varied clinical, administrative, and educational roles.

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