A medical alert ID is worn on the body (usually as a bracelet or a necklace) at all times. It contains important medical information about the wearer. It helps medical professionals give the right care in case of an emergency.

Here's how to get your child a medical alert ID. Be sure to talk to your child about the importance of always wearing their medical alert ID. They should take it off only when absolutely necessary.

• When picking the medical alert ID:
  • Check to see if your child's health insurance covers specific medical alert IDs.
  • Consider whether a bracelet or a necklace is better. Do not put a necklace on a young child, because the necklace could cause choking. Older kids and teens might want a necklace because they can easily hide it under their clothing.
  • Be sure that the medical information is easily readable.
  • Along with your child's medical condition, you may want to include your child's name and emergency contact information. If you aren't sure what to include, ask your healthcare provider.
• You can buy a medical alert ID at a:
  • Pharmacy
  • Online retailer
  • Medical supply store
• Create a backup medical identification. This is in addition to the medical alert ID that your child wears at all times. A backup could include:
  • Smartphone/watch medical identification that can be seen on the lock screen by emergency responders. Set this up through your specific type of phone.
  • Wallet emergency identification card.

How can a medical alert ID help in an emergency? A medical alert ID lets medical professionals such as emergency responders and emergency room doctors quickly identify someone's medical condition, allergies, or other important health information. This helps them give the right treatment as quickly as possible.

Who should wear a medical alert ID? Children and teens with the following conditions should wear a medical alert ID at all times:

• Diabetes
• Seizure disorder (epilepsy)
• Asthma
• Allergies to foods, medicines, and insect stings
• Heart conditions or pacemakers
• Intellectual disability

Kids and teens who take certain medicines should also wear a medical alert ID. If you aren't sure whether your child should wear a medical alert ID, talk to your healthcare provider.

Why are most medical alert IDs bracelets or necklaces? Medical professionals are taught to check for medical alert bracelets and necklaces. If your child's emergency information is written somewhere else, the medical professional may not find it when it's needed.