Thanks to a Veterans Health Administration directive, Veterans with chronic medical conditions are eligible for a medical ID bracelet or dog tag. Importantly – the personalized ID is customized for each patient. In order to obtain a medical ID, the Veteran must be approved by a clinician – physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, diabetes educator, case manager or any other healthcare professional within the VA. Next, an electronic consult must be submitted for ordering and fulfillment by VA’s Prosthetics Services.
What is a medical ID?
An engraved medical ID is a reliable tool to communicate vital medical information, especially in an emergency. If the wearer is unable to speak or coherently describe their medical issues, the ID will speak for them. Unlike phone apps or wallet cards, a medical ID is highly visible when worn around the neck or wrist. It is highly likely to be seen by EMS or other health care professionals, who are trained to look for an ID in an emergency. A medical ID is recommended by numerous medical organizations as well as the VA. It is a proven tool that is surely underutilized within the VA.
What to engrave on an ID
Common medical ailments for which a medical ID is indicated – but are not limited to – diabetes, heart conditions, food or drug allergies, PTSD, dementia, embedded metal fragments or rare diseases. A medical ID may be useful, even lifesaving, for many Veteran patients with a variety of health issues.
Usually the Veterans name
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