THE ULTIMATE MEDICAL ALERT NECKLACE

Here at ROAD iD, we’re known for our bands and medical alert bracelets. But WAY back when we started in 1999, we offered just one ID. It was a medical alert necklace called the FIXX ID. (Psst! There’s a cool story behind that name.) It resembles the classic military dog tag and remains a favorite ID among longtime ROAD iD customers. 

That means we know a little something about when and why you might want medical alert necklaces over bracelets. And we put together this handy FAQ to cover all those burning questions.

What is a Medical Alert ID?

Medical alert IDs are passive or active devices that provide crucial health information about the wearer. Passive medical alert products include wearable identification like medical alert necklaces or bracelets. These items can bear information like the wearer’s name, medical condition or allergies, and contact persons. 

On the other hand, active medical alert products often come in digital forms, such as smartphones, applications, necklaces, and watches. These devices may use wireless technology to communicate directly with emergency monitoring services and often have a recording or an audible warning when activated. 

While you can always bring a regular medical ID with you, it can be easy to forget to bring it with you at all times. Plus, finding it in your purse or wallet can take time, which is something that first responders can’t afford when your life is on the line.

How does a medical ID necklace help?

Emergency situations require quick, accurate decisions. First responders should be able to prioritize based on the individual’s specific medical condition to perform the right interventions immediately. With medical alert necklaces, emergency personnel are able to provide a positive outcome in a potentially life-threatening situation.

Although some people may find it uncomfortable to “advertise” their existing medical condition, medical IDs today come in different styles, such as our own stylish dog tag medical alert necklace. While the information displayed is embedded subtly, EMTs and paramedics are trained to check such devices and accessories, especially the Staff of Asclepius and the Caduceus symbol, a universal icon for emergency medical services.

Who needs a medical alert id?

Anyone that has an existing or past medical condition should own a medical ID. Other individuals that need them are those who are dependent on certain medications, supplements, herbs, or vitamins. 

It’s also crucial for individuals with allergies, or medical conditions that are immediately life-threatening should have some form of identification or a system to alert and communicate with first responders should they be incapacitated. 

Having a medical ID at all times is a huge help, especially when the bearer is alone or with a person or a group of people that are unaware of their medical history, allergies, or medications. While these people will be able to effectively communicate with emergency medical services, unexpected situations can arise that might incapacitate them along with the patient as well. 

To improve the outcome of such situations, it’s best to wear your medical alert necklace or bracelet at all times.

What conditions can be placed on medical alert necklaces?

Medical Alert necklaces should display medical conditions that will alert first responders during emergencies. These conditions include:

• Allergies to certain medications
• Medications the bearer is dependent on, such as insulin, seizure meds, blood thinners, etc.
• Key diagnoses (e.g. type 1 diabetes, epilepsy, pacemaker), including cognitive or communication difficulties
• A "No Known Drug Allergies (NKDA)" indication

You've got questions. We've got answers.

WHEN IS A MEDICAL ID NECKLACE BETTER THAN A MEDICAL ID BRACELET?

In part, it’s a personal preference. Which one are you most likely to wear? That’s always the best choice for something that might save your life one day. Next, think about what works best with your lifestyle. If you work a lot with your hands—cooking, woodworking, or even typing—a bracelet might get in the way. 

A necklace, on the other hand, can easily be tucked inside your shirt, so it doesn’t interfere with every day—or epic—adventures.

WHO NEEDS A MEDICAL ALERT NECKLACE?

How much time do you have? Just about anyone worried about a health condition or allergy. Maybe your doctor recommended a diabetes medical bracelet, but you prefer a necklace. 

Or you want a medication ID that lets first responders know you’re taking a blood thinner or critical heart medication. And, hey, anyone with an allergy should consider a medical alert necklace. It doesn’t matter whether you have a bee sting allergy, egg allergy, or shellfish allergy—you’ll want medical personnel to know what’s what in an emergency.

SO, LET’S SAY I ALREADY HAVE A SMALL PILE OF MEDICAL ID BRACELETS…

Listen up, we’re big fans of medical ID bracelets for men, women, and kids. And we know it’s easy to amass a small collection with cool designs. But a medical ID necklace might give you another option for days when you’re just not feeling the bracelet. 

Tucking it into your shirt can prevent any unwanted questions when someone spots your medical alert bracelet. A lightweight medical necklace might be less noticeable for you, too.

WILL EMTS AND OTHER FIRST RESPONDERS FIND A MEDICAL ALERT NECKLACE?

Definitely. Most first responders are trained to check for both a medical ID bracelet and a medical ID necklace, so there’s no need to worry if you prefer one over the other. Just make sure your information is up-to-date and easy to read. 

Investing in a necklace with high-quality laser engraving can help you with the latter (hint: that’s every ROAD iD we sell).

HOW MUCH CAN I PERSONALIZE MY MEDICAL NECKLACE?

There are a lot of options for personalized medical alert necklaces. First stop: What you engrave on those all-important tags. Name, medical condition or allergy, and an emergency contact are musts. You might also include your date of birth and key medications. 

Another idea is to add a motivational phrase to keep you moving toward your goals. You could even swap out the chain for a favorite you already own or choose an image for the front of your tag.

WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN QUALITY MEDICAL ID TAGS?

We’re big believers in style and function. You need to look good on your way down the street and have medical ID tags that can take a beating on all of life’s adventures. Look for tough materials like stainless steel along with high-quality, easy-to-read engraving. 

Being waterproof is a big bonus; you never know when there’s going to be a downpour or the chance to jump in a pristine mountain lake. Consider the weight of the necklace, too. A medical ID necklace should have your back, not hold you back.

CAN I GET A MEDICAL NECKLACE THAT LOOKS LIKE CLASSIC MILITARY DOG TAGS?

Now you’re speaking our language! We modeled our FIXX ID after the classic dog tag designed by the U.S. military from the ’40s through the beginning of the ’70s, overlapping with both World War II and Vietnam. It’s a rugged look that can take a beating, and it allows you to celebrate all the veterans out there who served with the real thing around their necks.

WILL MEDICARE PAY FOR MEDICAL ALERT NECKLACES?

Medical alert necklaces don’t fall under Medicare’s definition of “durable medical equipment,” which means they are not part of the medical benefit. But those interested in using medical alert systems can avail of Medicare Advantage plans or Part C, which covers the costs of personal emergency response systems (PERS). 

Before anything else, it’s best to check with state requirements whether Medicare plans cover medical alert systems. 

WHAT IS A GOOD MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEM FOR SENIORS?

A great medical alert system for seniors should be equipped with fall detection, on-the-go battery life, and good at-home range. Some of the best medical alert systems include Medical Guardian, Bay Alarm Medical, GetSafe, and Aloe Care Health. 

It’s also best for seniors to get their own medical alert necklaces or bracelets. This way, it’s easier for emergency medical services to identify them and contact their next of kin in case of emergencies. 

Ready for your own medical alert necklace? Start right here.