FAQs
What is the MedicAlert Foundation?
MedicAlert is a not-for-profit, registered charity which provides a life-saving identification system for people with hidden medical conditions and allergies. This takes the form of a body-worn bracelet or necklet known as an Emblem which bears the MedicAlert symbol on the disc and is supported by a 24 hour emergency telephone service.
How does the MedicAlert system work?
Each Member receives a personalised Emblem engraved with the wearer's main medical conditions or vital details, an ID number and a 24 hour emergency telephone number through which healthcare professionals can access the individual's details from anywhere in the world.
What happens in an emergency?
In an emergency vital medical information is immediately available on the back of the MedicAlert Emblem. Medical and emergency personnel can then telephone the emergency number on the back of the disc and quote the Member's ID number to receive any further important details.
How much does MedicAlert cost?
MedicAlert Members pay an annual fee of £25 in addition to the cost of their preferred Emblem, which is then engraved with the wearer's main medical condition or vital details, an ID number and a 24 hour emergency telephone number. MedicAlert's wide range of award-winning jewellery costs from £19.95. It is our aim that everyone who needs it can access the service and we therefore provide subsidised or free Memberships to people on low income or benefits.
What happens if I lose the Emblem?
The Member is responsible for their Emblem and for any costs to replace it if it is lost. Occasionally lost Emblems are returned to MedicAlert via the response service.
What happens if I do not renew my fee but keep on wearing the product?
If an annual subscription is not paid the Member's records will not be updated. Any healthcare professional calling in an emergency would still be provided with the information MedicAlert holds, but would be informed of the date when the record was last amended. At present we only remove people's records from the system if we are informed that they are deceased, however, this policy is currently under review.
What if my Emblem is faulty or gets damaged?
All Emblems are guaranteed for 1 year. Members are asked to send in the Emblem for repair. If a repair is not possible, the Emblem will be replace. All repairs should be carried out by MedicAlert under the guarantee.
What happens if I want something changed on my Emblem?
Gold, silver and gold-plate Emblems can be re-engraved for a small fee. However, stainless steel Emblems, sportsbands and kidsbands cannot be re-engraved. (Free of charge for those with proof of benefits.)
How long will it take for my Emblem to arrive?
Emblems are dispatched to arrive within 28 days.
