MedicAlert Awareness Month

A little bit of information can go a long way in helping medical professionals in an emergency situation! MedicAlert Awareness Month is here to shine a light on the need to increase public awareness about MedicAlert bracelets, what they mean and how to use them. 

History of MedicAlert Awareness Month

The inspiration for the creation of the medical ID bracelet system came when the 14-year-old daughter of a doctor went into the hospital for some routine tests – and then went into anaphylactic shock that was nearly fatal. Her physician father came up with the idea of wearing a bracelet that would provide detailed medical instructions for doctors if another emergency occurred.

Not only after, the MedicAlert Foundation got its start in 1956 with the purpose of developing a universal medical identification system that would benefit patients by providing important information right away. In 1978, the first National MedicAlert Week was officially declared by US President Jimmy Carter.

By 1996, on the 40th anniversary of the birth of the MedicAlert Foundation, governors across the nation proclaimed August as National MedicAlert Awareness Month. This annual event is supported through the efforts of the MedicAlert Foundation with the purpose of educating and increasing public understanding of the importance of MedicAlert bracelets.

How to Celebrate MedicAlert Awareness Month

Consider some of these ideas for getting started with observing MedicAlert Awareness Month:

Learn More About the MedicAlert System

One of the best ways to celebrate MedicAlert Awareness Month would be to get more informed about the ways that medical bracelets can save lives. A good resource for information is the MedicAlert website, which provides all sorts of educational information on how the system works as well as a shop where individuals can order appropriate bracelets based on their medical conditions. 

In addition to bracelets, there are other options such as necklaces, kids’ jewelry, or even digitized IDs for smart watches. MedicAlert also offers plans to help individuals store important documents for when they need them. Of course, it’s important to check with a medical professional to be sure exactly which product is the correct one for each individual.

Share Online About MedicAlert

Let friends, family members and others know how important the medical bracelet system has been personally by posting stories online. Individuals can raise awareness by sharing a photo on social media with a note about what the MedicAlert bracelet means to them.

Teach Kids About MedicAlert

Children may not be aware that a MedicAlert bracelet is not just a normal piece of jewelry that is worn as an accessory. Parents and teachers can use MedicAlert Awareness Month as an opportunity to instruct kids about what this special bracelet looks like and what it might mean if they see it on a person who needs medical care. In addition, this is a great time to review with a child the age-appropriate response in case of any emergency, including how to call 9-1-1 or other local emergency numbers.