Call to Fund MedicAlert for At-Risk Kiwis Gains Support from Southlander
“If I have an attack, I can’t speak. I need something to speak for me when I can’t.” - Sarah Bennett originally featured in The Southland Times

Understanding MedicAlert and Why It Matters in an Emergency
In an emergency, every second counts. When someone is unable to speak for themselves, critical medical information needs to be available immediately to first responders and healthcare professionals.
This is where MedicAlert® plays an important role.
MedicAlert is a medical information service that helps ensure your essential health information is accessible when you need it most. It works alongside your Medical ID and a secure medical record that can be accessed in an emergency.
How MedicAlert Works
MedicAlert combines a wearable Medical ID with a secure medical record linked to your membership.
Members wear a Medical ID bracelet or pendant engraved with essential information such as:
· Medical Conditions
· Severe allergies
· Important medications
· Emergency instructions where relevant
In an emergency, this information can immediately alert paramedics, hospital staff, or bystanders to important medical needs.
Each Medical ID is linked to a secure medical profile containing more detailed health information and emergency contacts. This allows authorised responders to access additional information when required, helping support safer and more effective care.
Why is this important in an emergency?
There are many situations where a person may not be able tospeak for themselves.
They may be:
· Unconscious
· Confused or disoriented
· Experiencing a seizure
· Having a severe allergic reaction
· Involved in an accident
In these moments, quick access to accurate medical information can make a significant difference.
MedicAlert® helps emergency responders:
· Identify medical conditions quickly
· Avoid treatment delays
· Reduce the risk of medical errors
· Contact family or emergency contacts when needed
Who can benefit from MedicAlert®?
MedicAlert supports people of all ages and healthbackgrounds. It is commonly used by people living with:
· Diabetes
· Epilepsy
· Severe allergies
· Asthma
· Heart conditions
· Autism or communication difficulties
· Rare or complex medical conditions
It can also provide reassurance for parents, caregivers and family members who want to know their loved one’s medical information is always accessible in an emergency.
Peace of mind when it matters most
Emergencies are unpredictable, but being prepared can make all the difference.
MedicAlert provides an extra layer of protection by helping ensure critical medical information is available when every second counts. It supports communication in situations where a person may not be able to speak for themselves and helps emergency responders deliver safer, faster care.
Because in an emergency, your medical information matters.
