Medical Jewelry Vital for Diabetics in an Emergency
Up-to-date information helps reduce medical errors

TURLOCK, California (March 9, 2004) – In an emergency, medical personnel have only moments to determine a patients needs, especially the needs of diabetics, and begin lifesaving care. Unfortunately, diabetics often cannot communicate their special needs in an emergency, and face an increased risk of medical errors.

According to the Institute of Medicine , medical errors rank as the 8th leading cause of death in the country, ahead of motor vehicle accidents, breast cancer, or AIDS.

Diabetics can reduce their risk for medical errors by wearing a MedicAlert ® bracelet or necklace. MedicAlert provides the medical information that is often needed before treatment can begin. In addition, emergency responders can call the organization’s 24-Hour emergency hotline to receive further information on the patient, including medical conditions, emergency contacts, allergies, medications, insurance provider, and more. MedicAlert also contacts the patient’s family, so they are not alone in an emergency.

MedicAlert is one of the exhibitors at this Saturday’s Denver Diabetes Expo, at the Colorado Convention Center from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visitors who sign up for a MedicAlert membership at the expo receive $10 off enrollment fees.

Today, MedicAlert is one of the largest nonprofit membership organizations in the world with a mission to protect and save lives. Since 1956, MedicAlert has relayed member's key medical facts to emergency medical personnel so that they receive faster, safer treatment, and avoid harmful or fatal reactions.