High-Tech Medical Alert Devices

Be prepared in case of an emergency with smart medical alert devices.

By Mary Anne Dunkin

Medical alert devices help save lives. They alert emergency responders and can provide them with vital information – from drug allergies to a need for insulin – when you can’t. Here are four high-tech options that could help in an emergency.

smart-ICE. This application will talk for you via your iPhone or iPod even when you can’t, smart-ICE – in case of emergency – allows you to record a message with crucial medical information that will play as soon as an emergency medical technician presses a play button. Other features include an “Alert EMT button” so that you can easily call for help and a “My Location” button that quickly identifies your location for EMS dispatchers. $1.99 from iTunes

Medical Alert Pendant USB Flash Drive. Whether you are home or out and about, a medical alert USB flash drive can provide medical personnel vital information if you are sick or injured. The 1GB USB flash drive comes with a 20-inch ball chain and software that allows you to easily store and maintain your medical information and even copies of scans and X-rays as PDF files that can be read by almost any computer. $29.99 from Amazon.com

SilverCare Personal Safety Emergency Alert Device. If a medical emergency prevents you from getting to the phone, the SilverCare device allows hands-free calling right from your wristwatch. The device, which works with your home phone line, can be programmed to dial friends and neighbors, as well as 911, and will continue to dial until a live person is reached. The device also allows you to program in medical information, which is displayed and accessible through the device by medical personnel; provides appointment and medication reminders; enables you to turn lights in your home on off remotely; and more. $349 from ActiveForever.com

MAMED01 Medical Alarm Concepts MediPendant. Worn as a pendant around your neck or clipped to your belt, the MediPendant allows you to speak and listen to an EMT-trained operator directly through the pendant 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with the press of a button. Equipment and operators are available for both English and Spanish speakers. $199.95 from All Systems Are Go

DONALD

16 May 2012, 10:35

YES YES YES YES YES BUT

Jerris Finkbeiner

15 May 2012, 18:14

I have a medical alert bracelet with a USB Flash Drive inside just like the one described above. The problem is when I asked EMT's if they could access my information if necessary, such as if I were unconscious they told me they are unable to do so. Then when I was at the hospital I asked emergency personal the same question and was told the same answer. My question now is what good is my bracelet? It has all this important information about me, I am a transplant patient, it could be a matter of life or death. Why won't they access this information?

A.J Cochran

15 May 2012, 09:22

I am using 5Star, by Great Call the makers of the Jitterbug phone. It works on the Verizon Network, goes with you everywhere, clips on clothing. It is another of the new safety alert devices. I have used it a few times as I fall often. Works quicky and notifies family too.

JoAn C.

04 Nov 2011, 17:38

I am very pleased with my SilverCare system. Fortunately, I haven't had to use the 911 function. Otherwise, all the other features have proven valuable. My previous alert system had only a call center service. I particularly appreciate that I no longer have to rely upon a call center since SilverPlus is a self-contained unit. I recommend it!

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High-Tech Medical Alert Devices

Be prepared in case of an emergency with smart medical alert devices.

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