National Medic Awareness Month
Do you need a Medical ID?
As a public service, we wanted to take this week’s blog post to shine a spotlight on a national observance that could very well save your life or the life of someone you love. Did you know that August is National Medic Awareness Month? Although we don’t usually enter the picture while medic alerts matter, sadly, we manage the remains of people who wore their associated accessory to no avail or failed to do so, to sad result.
What is MedicAlert?
For 60 years, the MedicAlert Foundation has shined a light on the importance of providing essential information to first responders and others who arrive “on scene” during an emergency. With pieces linked to easily accessible digital information, providers can determine appropriate steps given the patient’s relevant medical conditions, including allergies, diabetes, heart conditions, epilepsy, etc., as well as prescriptions, and/or treatment wishes. This leads to faster and more effective medical treatment at the scene of an accident or emergency.
Do you need a medical ID? MedicAlert is one brand of medical ID accessories.
Medical IDs choices were once limited.
Medical Alert Metamorphosis
IDs used to be ugly, chunky utilitarian bracelets or dog tags, engraved with a laundry list of medical conditions. Thus, only the most severely affected people wore them. Today, people enjoy a myriad of fashion choices, or can even opt for a tattoo. Also, most connect to electronic information designed to save lives and quickly reunite loved ones.
Medical ID Choices in 2018
- Bracelets in classic, fashion or casual designs, in every conceivable material from silicone to sterling silver, suitable for virtually every budget.
- Keychains
- Charms
- Kid-friendly “fun” designs
- Masculine options, such as
- USBs, suitable for loading relevant information
Do you need a Medical ID?
MedicAlert can tell the doctors caring for you what they need to know. Research shows that 95% of emergency responders check for medical identification around the wrist and/or neck. You could benefit from the addition of this key piece of jewelry into your wardrobe if any of these apply to your situation:
- Alzheimer’s
- Asthma
- Bleeding Disorder
- Diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Hearing Impairment
Heart Condition- Kidney Failure
- Marfan Syndrome
- Mental Health Disorder
- Renal Disease
- Seizure Disorder
- Organ Transplants
- Vision Impairments
- Are you allergic to penicillin or other medications?
- Do you require certain life-saving medication in an emergency?
- Do you wish to invoke a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order under certain situations?
- Caregiver
- Healthcare Professional
- Veteran Patient
- DNR (Do Not Resuscitate)
Although wearing a Medical ID won’t guarantee you a long and healthy life, it is one step toward ensuring your wishes are respected even in worst case scenarios. You can include end of life wishes with your medical information on most relevant websites. So, don’t miss the opportunity to speak up now in case you are unable to at some point in the future.
About Foothill Funeral & Cremation Services
Whether or not you choose to use Medical ID, feel free to contact us now or at your time of need (626) 335-0615. Or, if you prefer, reach us by email or drop by our Glendora showroom. Our relationship with United Methodist Church is the perfect place for mourners to host funerals and memorials. You’ll love the grandiose yet intimate setting. We proudly serve the San Gabriel Valley, San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles Basin, Orange County and the Inland Empire. Finally, working in the mortuary industry since 1996, our reputation is one of quality, sincerity and trust. Please allow us to help you at your time of need or in the future. Call today (626) 335-0615 or contact us via email.
