The MedicAlert Foundation and Traveling Here and Abroad

Senior Magazine
Bob Richelson
October 16, 2004

For nearly half a century, the nonprofit MedicAlert Foundation, based just south of Modesto in Turlock, has been protecting and saving the lives of individuals with medical conditions including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s Disease, arthritis, asthma, allergies to medications, hearing or visual impairments, and other ailments.

An individual’s primary medical condition is engraved on the back of the MedicAlert ® emblem, which is worn as a bracelet or necklace. The number to the organization’s 24-Hour Emergency Response Center, where Members’ medical records are kept in a secure database, is also engraved on the emblem. In the event of an emergency, first responders can access the information they need from MedicAlert, often before treatment can begin.

MedicAlert is able to store a variety of medical information, including current medical conditions, emergency contacts, medication dosages, EKG, implanted devices, immunization records advance directives, and organ donation specifications.

Dr. Marion C. Collins, a Turlock physician, founded MedicAlert in 1956 after his daughter suffered an allergic reaction to a tetanus antitoxin and nearly lost her life. He wanted a simple way for others to be aware of her condition, and the idea of a body-worn emblem was born. The idea quickly caught on, and today, MedicAlert serves over 4 million Members worldwide.

MedicAlert answered over 400,000 calls from its Members in 2003. In addition, 3,483 emergency calls from the United States and Canada were handled that year in Turlock as well.

In addition to its core services, MedicAlert also offers its Members TravelPlus SM, a travel assistance program. TravelPlus offers such services as language translation, hospitalization, evacuation in order to get you the treatment you need, and mortal remains repatriation. Members are covered, regardless of a pre-existing medical condition or age.

MedicAlert enrollment fees are $35 for the first year, which includes a stainless steel emblem. Annual renewal fees are $20. There are additional fees for TravelPlus services. For more information call 800-ID-ALERT, 209-668-333, or visit www.medicalert.org.