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Medical alert jewelry refers to jewelry that holds one fundamental purpose – to inform others of a critical medical condition when you’re not in a position to inform them yourself. From a practical sense, it’s probably the most important piece of jewelry you will wear.
Some people prefer to get a beautiful yet functional tattoo, while others go the old-fashioned way of carrying their information in a card in their purse. Maybe you are not into needles and are afraid that a wallet/purse may be difficult to find in an emergency.
In this case, then a piece of medical ID jewelry will probably be the best option for you. Let’s take a look at how to choose medical alert jewelry.
What is Medical Alert Jewelry?
This is a tag or symbol that lets emergency medical technicians know that you have a medical condition. While the information you choose to include on the ID depends on your preference, the most commonly provided are your first and last name, medical condition/s, allergies and emergency contact number.
Where to Wear Medical Alert Jewelry
Medical alert jewelry is commonly worn as a bracelet or a pendant. We personally prefer the bracelet option as this is easy to see and access in an emergency. A pendant is a little more hidden and may not be the first place emergency healthcare professionals look.
There is a wide range of medical alert bracelets, necklaces and pendants available. You can also wear the medical alert jewelry as an anklet (ankle bracelet).
EMTs generally check the wrists and neck for a medical ID, so wearing your medical alert jewelry there would be sensible. However, as we’ve already covered, a neck chain is more discreet, a bracelet is handier during an emergency. Again, you can choose what works best for you.
Why Wear Medical ID Jewelry
The purpose of the medical ID is to let any medical provider know of the condition you have even if you are not able to communicate it yourself.
This can be life-saving because you will be able to receive quick treatment that is suitable for your condition. Most first – responders in an emergency look for a medical ID for more information.
In other words, a piece of medical alert jewelry is a critical item and can speak for you when you can’t speak for yourself.
How to Choose Medical ID Jewelry
There are many variations and jewelry designs available, but there are some basic things to consider when choosing medical ID jewelry.
- Most medical alert jewelry bear the Star of Life insignia to make it instantly recognizable. If it doesn’t come with this symbol, you probably should request it.
- Durability would be one of the main factors that affect your choice. Choose a material that can withstand exposure. Medical alert jewelry usually come in metal (gold, silver, stainless steel, and copper), leather, fabric or silicone. While all these options are beautiful, metal is the best option as it lasts.
- If you have any allergies to metal, choose metal that’s hypoallergenic, such as stainless steel, titanium, or gold.
- Consider the amount of information you need engraved on your medical alert jewelry. This would affect the overall design and style of the piece. For example, a dog tag is a stylish way to have a lot more information engraved. It is also inconspicuous as many people nowadays wear dog-tags as a fashion statement.
- Ideally, you want the jewelry to be versatile. You should be able to wear it in water, at work, at fashionable and dressy events, and during heavy duty activities. Consider interchangeable bracelets, for example, to save yourself money and give yourself more style options.
Types of Medical Alert Jewelry
There are many types of medical alert jewelry available on the market. What you choose depends on your specific requirements. You can buy a simple engraved medical alert bracelet or tag that has your critical information.
There is also the option of purchasing a medical alert bracelet that has a USB stick attached to it. While this may seem like a good idea, there are many downsides to this, such as the violation of a number of privacy and technology rules (think potential viruses, data compromise, and more).
You can also purchase a medical alert bracelet with a QR code attached, but this would only be useful if you have a lot of information to share. These are fine for after the emergency, when you are in a controlled environment where medical professionals can access your information.
The most important details need to be clearly visible and easily accessible on your neck or wrist. In that regard, nothing beats having a medical alert bracelet or necklace, with your information simply engraved on it.
Where to Buy Medical Alert Jewelry
Many reputable pharmacies have medical alert jewelry for sale. These are usually straightforward in design and quite affordable. However, if you are after something more stylish and chic, then it’s best to take your search online.
You will have a wider range of options to choose from. There are sites that specialize in medical IDs, such as Lauren’s Hope and American Medical ID. These sites give you a wide variety of stylish and fashionable medical jewelry options.
Amazon https://www.amazon.com/ and Etsy https://www.etsy.com/ also have a range of unique and beautiful medical alert jewelry that you are bound to love.
Can Medical Alert Jewelry Be Stylish?
Of course! In the past, wearing a piece of medical alert jewelry was like wearing a label, plain, boring and unimaginative, but now there are many fashionable options available.
In fact, your medical alert jewelry can be a fashion statement. Just as you would with regular jewelry, you can have a few different medical alert bracelets or pendants, and change them to suit your outfit or mood. In this way, your medical ID will be something you will love to wear!
Wrapping Up
When choosing medical alert jewelry, the main thing to consider is whether it can accommodate the information you need it to hold. Beyond that, consider durability, style, and versatility.
Today, it’s possible to balance practicality with aesthetics, and there are many designers catering to this by creating stylish and purposeful medical alert jewelry styles.
