If you’re a runner with a medical condition, it’s important that you carry the appropriate ID and medical information with you every time you’re on the road. Obviously the hope is that no problems will arise, but if you require immediate medical attention for some reason, the details of your condition should be readily available to the paramedics, first responders or hospital staff. In 95% of cases, first responders look for a medical ID when assessing a patient during an emergency.
Prompt diagnosis is critical to effective treatment of an ill or injured athlete, and wearing a medical ID bracelet or carrying an information card helps minimize the chance of error. The medical ID should specify any medical conditions, food or drug allergies, prescribed medicines, donor information and emergency contacts.
Hard-copy cards, medical tags and bracelets are great traditional choices, but if you run with a smartphone, you may also want to download an app to hold your medical information. Search your app store for options—some are free while others have a nominal cost. Find one that fits your personal needs. Some apps even have GPS capabilities and can alert others to your location if you are in distress.
Whether you’re carrying your information in hard copy or digital form, you can feel confident that you are running safely and providing accurate information to emergency or medical personnel.
