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ARTICLES
Be Aware of
Look-alike MedicAlert® Bracelets
This handout is published
by MedicAlert®. Their web site is at http://www.medicalert.ca.
Copy cat bracelets
"Medical" bracelets found in jewelry stores or sometimes in pharmacies
are not backed-up by the identification and information service MedicAlert®
provides, nor are they linked to a 24-hour emergency hotline.
Therefore in emergencies, health care providers do not have access
to any information other than the simple generic information on the
look-alike bracelets. More importantly, jewelers and engravers
are not trained to use medical terminology and errors can easily be
made in engraving (for example, even a misspelling of a drug can make
a big difference).
Membership benefits
Only MedicAlert® provides lifetime membership and the comprehensive
protection of a bracelet or necklet custom engraved with medical
conditions, a member ID number and a 24-hour emergency hotline number.
Members also receive free lifetime updates of medical records and
a wallet card with additional information. The lifetime membership
fee is $50-$60 depending on local taxes (1999) (Actual cost
is around $400- Webmaster insert).
What happens in an
emergency?
First responders and health care professionals look for genuine
MedicAlert® bracelets, read the information engraved on the
back and begin working immediately. They can call the toll-free,
24-hour emergency hotline (telephone number also engraved on the
back, along with the member's ID number) to instantly receive a
comprehensive and confidential report from a member's computerized
file. A member file can be provided to paramedics, firemen,
police, physicians and nurses in less than two minutes. The
hotline can be accessed anywhere in the world, in 140 languages.
Accurate information
through MedicAlert®
MedicAlert® staff have the medical terminology knowledge and
experience to work with each member to ensure medical information
is always accurate. Member records are also updated by our
specially trained staff. By using an ident other than one
provided by MedicAlert®, one cannot be assured of the full and
necessary protection. Wearing a "copycat" bracelet may also
place individuals at risk because medical personnel are trained
to look for genuine MedicAlert® bracelets and necklets.
Only MedicAlert® has an extensive system for the verification
of the medical information engraved on the back of each ident (bracelet
or necklet).
Registered Trademark
MedicAlert's® logo and symbol have been registered trademarks
in Canada since 1961 and are therefore protected by law. Our
products meet specific standards for strength and durability.
Terms
of Use: The information
on this site does not constitute medical advice and is for your
general information only. We cannot be held responsible for anything
you could possibly do or say because of information on this site.
Consult your family physician or allergist for specific questions
or concerns.
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