1) E-HealthKEY from MedicAlert Foundation International

The E-HealthKEY is a new product from MedicAlert. It keeps all your personal medical information available on a portable USB device attached to a key ring.
The device is supported by a database at MedicAlert headquarters. Medical information is kept on the database and made available through the device on any PC with an internet connection.

PCs not connected online can access an emergency section of the device.

The Problem: Many ambulances don't have computers. Check with your local agency.

2) Medic Tag USB Device

Medic Tag is another USB device designed to keep detailed medical records handy. Medic Tag doesn't use the internet to access information.
The Problem: Same as the E-HealthKEY; Most ambulances are not equipped with portable computers to access devices like these.

3) Personal Medical Jewelry

Medical jewelry is an old standby. MedicAlert makes the most recognizable bracelets, with basic information engraved on the back of the company's emblem. Emergency workers can immediately see important conditions or allergies.

Be sure to include information on conditions that may leave you incapacitated. Depending on the state, jewelry may also be used to indicate end-of-life decisions.

Some jewelry is supported with databases that emergency workers can access.

The Problem: You have to wear it!

4) Wallet Cards

At home it's important to keep personal medical information handy. In your wallet or purse it doesn't need to be as detailed, but it does need to cover some basic information:

• Name

• Birthdate

• Drug or food allergies

• Prescription medications

• Medical conditions

• Emergency contacts

Whether you print the info on a card with a computer or by hand, make sure it's legible.

The Problem: Ambulance personnel probably won't look in your wallet. More than likely, the card will be found at the hospital.

5) Put Your Cell Phone on ICE

ICE stands for "In Case of Emergency." Putting "ICE" next to a number in your cell phone's contact list will tell medical or law enforcement personnel which number to call in an emergency. A sticker on the phone will let emergency workers know there is an emergency contact inside.

The Problem: Ambulance personnel may not look in your phone. They will, however, take your phone to the hospital where workers can call your emergency contact.

6) Scroll I.D.

The Scroll I.D. is a low-tech version of the USB keychain devices. A small scroll with personal medical information is housed inside a keychain. It carries the same type of personal medical information as a wallet card. Identification issues are alleviated by putting the owner's picture on the scroll.

The Problem: This product is not as well known as the others above. Rescuers may not recognize this object as a medical information device. The manufacturer is working to increase awareness.
Updated: June 7, 2006

Rod Brouhard is a paramedic in California with nearly 20 years of experience in emergency services. He writes and speaks regularly about emergency care and first aid. His work has appeared in EMS Magazine and The Modesto Bee, where he writes a column.

Source: About.com