MedicAlert Awareness Month is observed in August every year. Medical alert IDs have been around for decades, however, we don’t know their maximum potential yet. These IDs are essentially important for people living alone and for those who have potentially dangerous diseases so that they can alert people in case of an emergency. Moreover, it also helps medical personnel recognize medical conditions, medications, allergies, etc., and helps to avoid medical errors that can be fatal.
History of MedicAlert Awareness Month
The MedicAlert Foundation announced a MedicAlert Awareness Month to promote the life-saving qualities of the MedicAlert bracelet. In 1978, there was a national movement to promote MedicAlert Awareness. President Jimmy Carter went on to honor the MedicAlert Foundation by declaring the first National MedicAlert Week. Thereafter in 1996, to mark the foundation’s 40th anniversary, California’s Governor Pete Wilson and Governors from 24 other states proclaimed August as National MedicAlert Awareness Month.
The MedicAlert Foundation has been in existence for a while and the story of its creation dates back to 1953 when a 14-year-old girl Linda Collins of Turlock, California cut her finger and went to the hospital. During a routine test at the hospital, she went into anaphylactic shock, which was almost fatal. This event inspired her to think of a silver bracelet with the medical symbol on one side and special medical instructions on the other. Linda and her father, who was a doctor, sent the design to a jeweler in San Francisco who designed the first-ever MedicAlert bracelet.
In 1956, the MedicAlert Foundation was formed and went on to create an impressive database of medical records of people which now provides information that can be life-saving. It can alert doctors caring for you what they need to know, even when you’re unable to speak for yourself.
Thus it is important to have a whole month dedicated to a concept that has changed the game of the medical care system and provided a sense of relief in everyone’s lives.
MedicAlert Awareness Month timeline
MedicAlert Foundation is formed and headquartered in Turlock, California.
MedicAlert launches its computer database.
A national movement to promote MedicAlert Awareness begins.
MedicAlert IDs are publicized in conjunction with the insurance industry.
MedicAlert Awareness Month FAQs
How do I get a MedicAlert?
The Emergency Response Team can also be reached from outside the United States (U.S.) by calling 209-634-4917.
What is a MedicAlert tag?
MedicAlert can be worn around your neck or wrist and can communicate your health information in emergencies. It is connected to your online health record which is accessible 24/7, through the emergency response service.
How does MedicAlert work?
They signal an emergency that requires urgent attention and call emergency medical personnel. When the medical alert system is triggered, a signal is sent to an alarm monitoring system post which the situation is then assessed and, if required, medical personnel are dispatched or family members are contacted.
How To Observe MedicAlert Awareness Month
Get a MedicAlert bracelet
If not for yourself, you should get a Medic Alert bracelet for your elderly relatives. It will provide them with ease of mind and they can carry on their daily tasks easily. With a MedicAlert bracelet, you can rest assured that your health will be taken care of in emergency situations.
Spread awareness
While MedicAlert bracelets have been around for many decades, there is still not enough information on them for people to know. Start a social media conversation on the benefits of medic alert bracelets, attend events, speak to your local communities and conduct on-ground campaigns, and do your bit in helping save lives.
Donate MedicAlert bracelets
You can speak to local shelters and old-age homes if they require MedicAlert bracelets. If not the entire cost, you can contribute towards a fund that can help them buy these bracelets to look after people.
5 Facts About MedicAlert Bracelets
ICE and MedicAlert bracelets
In Case of Emergency bracelets and MedicAlert Bracelets are different as the former provides only emergency contact information while the latter provides a detailed health history.
They’re not the first thing checked
While MedicAlert bracelets are important, health personnel are trained to first keep you alive and check your airways, breathing, and circulation.
Usage
They are used to give information on existing health conditions, diseases, allergies, etc.
Endorsements
Actors, actresses, professional athletes, and performers have endorsed MedicAlert bracelets in the public.
Millionth MedicAlert bracelet
The millionth MedicAlert bracelet produced was given to comedian Carol Burnett.
Why Medic Alert Awareness Month Is Important
It can help saves lives
Many times people, unfortunately, cannot be helped as crucial time is lost in getting medical help. A MedicAlert can help save lives as it gives out a signal in case of emergency situations that require urgent attention.
Gives confidence to the elderly living alone
Elderly people are at high risk of not getting urgent medical attention when needed. Due to them living alone, they might be unable to contact health services or family to alert them of their condition. A MedicAlert can help to alleviate this problem by alerting the right people at the right time.
Helps to be stress-free
Elderly people especially can live stress-free knowing that the MedicAlert is there for them when they need help. They do not have to worry every single day and worsen their health even more.
MedicAlert Awareness Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | August 1 | Thursday |
| 2025 | August 1 | Friday |
| 2026 | August 1 | Saturday |
| 2027 | August 1 | Sunday |
| 2028 | August 1 | Tuesday |
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