SE Texas Times

The month of August is MedicAlert Awareness Month. For over 60 years, the MedicAlert Foundation International (MAFI) has customized jewelry for people who suffer from life-threatening medical conditions. Dr. Marion Collins established MAFI after his daughter, Linda, nearly died of a severe allergic reaction during a simple non-life-threatening medical procedure. Soon after, the Collins family produced the idea of inscribing Linda’s medical condition on a bracelet rather than attaching a note to her coat everywhere she went without her parents. Today, these medical alert bracelets, necklaces, and shoe tags help save millions of lives across the world annually. This month is dedicated to educating everyone about these medical alert bracelets to prevent another situation like Linda’s from occurring.

In emergency situations, good Samaritans and first responders must assess a situation and react quickly as best as they can with little to no information on what has caused the emergency (i.e., when a person collapses suddenly and/or becomes unresponsive). MedicAlert bracelets are designed to clearly state what medical conditions a person suffers from. These medical conditions include food or drug allergies; anaphylaxis shock; asthma; cardiac problems; hypertension; epilepsy or seizures; pacemakers; diabetes; risk of stroke; lung disease (like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder—COPD); cancer; dialysis; multiple sclerosis; blood thinners (Coumadin Warfarin); anemia or blood disorders; dementia or Alzheimer’s disease; Autism; children with special needs; and do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders.

In addition to stating what medical issue the victim may be suffering from, MAFI provides a 24/7 Emergency Response phone number on their identification jewelry. By calling that phone number, you will be able to receive information on the victim’s current medications and dosage, previous medical and surgery information (i.e., concussion, stroke), access to emergency contacts (family members), their primary care physician’s contact information, implanted medical devices, advance directives, and more. Knowing this information can significantly assist in responding to the individual and help expedite response from medical personnel once they arrive. MedicAlert bracelets have decreased medical errors by almost 50%.

MAFI is a non-profit charitable organization that partners with organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association and many more to provide those in need with proper identification jewelry. More information can be found by visiting the MedicAlert Foundation.

"If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this week’s article," said State Representative Todd Hunter of District 32, "please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office." He added: "Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services." Rep. Hunter's offices are available at any time for assistance with questions, concerns, or comments at Capitol Office: 512-463-0672 or District Office: 361-949-4603.

Rep. Hunter represents Aransas County and part of Nueces County. He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672.