A health alert bracelet is jewelry with a difference. It provides medical information to emergency responders, physicians and police when a person is unable to communicate due to issues of injury, health or age. In addition, many people have difficulty remembering their medical history, how to contact their doctor, and the names and dosages of medications. Health alert bracelets help keep such necessary medical and identifying information readily available. Numerous styles and systems ensure that people get bracelets that work best for their situation.
Health Alert Bracelet Users
The most common people who benefit from wearing a health alert bracelet include those who have heart conditions, diabetes, severe allergies and seizure disorders. Other situations and people where health alert bracelets come in handy include:
• being on multiple medications
• using blood thinners such as warfarin
• having medical implants such as pacemakers
• breathing difficulties as with asthma and COPD
• clinical trial patients
• people with mental or physical handicaps
• post-surgery patients.
• special needs children who may not be able to speak for themselves
• announcing medical directives, such as a "Do Not Resuscitate" order.
Style Selections
Unlike a hospital ID bracelet, there are many health alert bracelet styles. Metal bracelets may feature stainless steel, gold, sterling silver, titanium or the platinum alloy rhodium. Fashion-oriented beaded bracelets and charm bracelets are available. There are also more casual nylon and polyester sports bracelets and inexpensive silicone wristbands. The manufacturers inscribe the wearer's pertinent information on one or both sides of the metal or other facing materials.
Medical Information Bracelets
The most basic health alert systems use an engraved bracelet to display information about the wearer for the use of medical and safety personnel. The wearer's identity and primary health conditions are often listed. The bracelet does not require any technology. It can be used with an emergency response service for more in-depth medical support.
Monitoring Services
Another type of system pairs the information bracelet with membership in a monitoring service. The bracelet usually displays membership identification and a phone number for further information. Monitoring services usually maintain a database of the bracelet wearer's medical conditions, treatments and history. These are readily accessible for medical personnel.
In-home Monitoring Systems
There are health alert systems that are useful for people who are isolated, have limited mobility or who need in-house monitoring. The bracelets for the system are equipped with a "panic button" connected to a wireless server. The bracelet sends a signal to a dialing console when an emergency occurs. Alternately, the console dials numbers programmed into the system and plays a pre-recorded message, alerting caregivers or dispatching emergency medical services.
Product Cost
Like any type of jewelry, prices for health alert bracelets vary. As of 2009, a simple silicon wristband may cost about $5 and a crafted silver or gold bracelet may be $200 to $300 or more. Many health insurance providers and flexible spending accounts will reimburse for the cost of a bracelet used for medical purposes. A doctor's note or prescription may be required. In addition to the cost of the bracelet, the monitoring companies charge a monthly or yearly fee, which varies with the services.
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