Overview
MedicAlert provides globally recognised medical IDs linked to secure digital records, which are checked for accuracy by our in-house registered nurses. Designed for individuals with any medical condition or allergy, our system ensures first responders can access your vital health information in seconds - even if you cannot speak for yourself. With 24/7 availability, MedicAlert enables emergency teams to act quickly and confidently.
Wherever you go, the internationally recognised MedicAlert logo offers peace of mind you can wear anywhere.
Main purpose
Our goal is a world where no medical condition or allergy limits your confidence, dignity, independence, or safety.
By combining wearable IDs with secure digital medical records checked by our registered nurses, our service MedicAlert ensures individuals are always prepared for life’s unexpected moments.
We make your vital health information instantly available to first responders in an emergency, enabling faster and more informed care when every second counts. Ultimately, MedicAlert empowers your independence while providing profound reassurance to you, your family, and medical professionals.
Why was MedicAlert created?
MedicAlert was founded 70 years ago by parents wanting to keep their daughter safe at university by alerting others to her severe allergies. Today, MedicAlert protects thousands of people worldwide, ensuring first responders have crucial information without delay. Our globally recognised logo (the Greek symbol for healing) is trusted by health professionals everywhere. As the first and only medical ID charity we are proud to be the only service with in-house registered nurses, guaranteeing your vital medical information is always accurate and up to date.
Who is it for?
Individuals with medical conditions, carers, families, emergency responders, and healthcare professionals
Key Features
- Recognised by emergency services in the UK
- 24/7 emergency helpline (available in over 100 languages and dialects)
- Medical information storage
- ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact features
- Checked by registered nurses
- Update anytime
- Globally recognised
- NHS recommended
How does it work?
Wearing your MedicAlert ID every day guarantees you are protected in any emergency, wherever you go.
Step 1: Setting up your verified record. We hold your full medical records, which you complete and can update as often as you wish. To ensure your safety, our in-house nurses always check your details for accuracy. We highly recommend ensuring your record explicitly states 'Steroid Dependent'
Step 2: Customising your ID. Your chosen ID is engraved with your critical medical information, your unique membership number, and our 24/7 emergency telephone number. We recommend using the exact term ‘Steroid Dependent’ on your engraved ID.
Day-to-day use: Even in situations that are not an emergency, your ID gives you peace of mind. It is incredibly useful when speaking to doctors or explaining your condition to people you meet.
In a medical emergency: First responders and medical professionals can call us 24/7 to access your full medical record, using our language line if necessary to ensure you get immediate, accurate care.
Technical Requirements
MedicAlert provides seamless protection by combining physical medical IDs with a highly accessible digital profile. Here is everything you need to know about using the service:
- Supported Devices & OS: Our digital service is fully optimised for desktop, tablet, and mobile browsers, ensuring easy access via iOS and Android smartphones.
- Hardware Dependencies: There are no complex hardware or charging requirements. Your physical MedicAlert ID—whether a bracelet or other wearable—functions entirely independently to display critical information while linking directly back to your comprehensive digital record.
- Internet Connectivity: An internet connection is only needed if you choose to set up and manage your account online. Alternatively, our support team can help you complete your setup entirely over the phone.
- Worldwide Use: MedicAlert is built for global protection. First responders worldwide are trained to look for our universally recognised logo. In an emergency, medical professionals anywhere can call our 24/7 emergency helpline to access your full medical records.
Costs & Licenses
MedicAlert operates on a straightforward subscription model combined with a one-time purchase for your personalised medical ID:
Pricing Model: Our comprehensive annual membership is £41 a year. Your physical medical ID is a one-time purchase starting from £25.95, available in a wide variety of designs and colors to suit your personal style.
Discounts & Offers: We regularly feature sales and discounts on our physical IDs.
Charitable Support Programmes: As a charity, we believe no one should go without protection. We offer tailored protection programmes providing discounted or free memberships to those facing financial hardship. Additionally, our Early Start Programme provides free membership to children up until their 10th birthday.
Privacy & Data Security
MedicAlert takes your data security seriously. Here is how we manage and protect your information:
Storage & Protection: Data is securely stored on UK-based servers within highly secure data centres, protected by strict access controls.
Compliance: We are fully compliant with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, supported by our Cyber Essentials Plus accreditation.
Data Collected: We collect essential personal details, emergency contacts, and the full medical records that you complete.
Retention: Data is retained while your membership is active. If cancelled, records are securely held for 6 months before personal data is permanently anonymised.
Your Control: You can access, update, or request deletion of your medical records at any time, including during the 6-month lapsed period.
Third Parties: We never sell your data. Limited information is only shared with trusted partners for operational purposes under strict agreements.
Testing & Validation
Charlotte and Christine both live with Addison’s disease. As part of this community, you know the careful management that requires and how crucial rapid treatment is in an emergency. Charlotte stays active, while Christine balances multiple health conditions.
For both, MedicAlert provides essential reassurance. By ensuring their engraved IDs and medical records clearly state they are ‘Steroid Dependent’ - first responders instantly understand their needs.
Their stories show how MedicAlert empowers independence, offering everyday peace of mind and the confidence to navigate life knowing you are fully protected.
Support & Training
Member support is available via phone, webchat, email, post, and website enquiry form.
Hours are Monday–Friday 8:00–15:30 and Saturday 9:00–15:00, with a 24/7 emergency line.
Members can access video guides on the website, a member record tutorial via their dashboard, and comprehensive user guides and FAQs through both the website and webchat.
Free training materials - including sample IDs, leaflets, and posters are available to order online or via member services. This ensures accessible, multi-channel support alongside practical resources for responders, carers, and clinicians.
