Identification and Diabetes
No one can tell if you have diabetes just by looking
at you and sometimes it may be important for other people to know if
you cannot tell them yourself.
Why should I carry identification?
All
people with diabetes should have some form of identification and carry
with them or wear something that would alert others to the fact that
they have diabetes, especially those who are receiving insulin therapy
or taking tablets to control their blood glucose, blood pressure or for
other medical conditions, they may have.
In an emergency this information is vital as it will affect the care
and treatment required. This is in case you develop a severe hypoglycaemic
attack (low blood glucose) and are unable to treat yourself, or if you
were involved in an accident, or some other serious problem. In such
situations, you might become unable to inform those trying to help you
about your diabetes or other medical problems. It is important for the
person who finds you or any first aid or medical team that treats you,
to know about your diabetes and to be sure that your treatment is proper
and safe.
What can I do to help myself?
Carry a
card:
These are available at your diabetes centre, GP surgery and at many local
pharmacies.
Use an identification necklace or bracelet:
These are widely available. They need to be paid for and an annual
fee may also be needed. Details of your condition are kept on a
computer data base, which can be accessed in an emergency. Please
remember to ensure:
-
It is one that is recognised by the medical profession
-
Check that
you are comfortable wearing it at all times and that you are able to
open and fasten it especially if you have poor vision or difficulty
using your hands because it helps no-one if it is not worn.
-
It is waterproof.
Who supplies them?
Medic
Alert
Medic Alert Foundation,
1 Bridge Wharf,
156 Caledonian Road, London,
N1 9UU.
Telephone 0800 581420 - free phone.
Medi-Tag Dept
Hoopers,
37 Northampton Street,
Hockley,
Birmingham, B18 6DU
Telephone 0121 2001616 |
