What Information Should You Put on a Medical ID

Medical IDs have been around for decades. But what’s supposed to be on one? Understanding this helps you create an effective emergency profile.

Essential: Blood Type

Blood type saves critical time in emergencies. If unknown, include “UNKNOWN—PLEASE TEST.”

Essential: Allergies

List ALL allergies on your profile:

• Drug allergies (penicillin, sulfa, NSAIDs)
• Food allergies (peanuts, shellfish, dairy)
• Environmental (bee stings, latex)

Essential: Medical Conditions

• Diabetes (Type 1 or 2)
• Epilepsy or seizure disorders
• Cardiac conditions (pacemaker, heart disease)
• Medical devices (insulin pump, cochlear implant)

For Seniors

Senior citizens particularly benefit from comprehensive profiles as they’re more likely to have multiple conditions responders need to know about.

Review annually, when medications change, after new diagnoses.