Cure SMA Offers Free Medical Alert Bracelet Kits to US Patients
Cure SMA has launched a new program to offer medical alert bracelets to spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) patients in the United States at no cost to the patient, according to a press release.
Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of SMA are eligible for the bracelet program and may fill out an online application form to receive one while supplies last. Patients younger than 18 may have a legal guardian fill out the form on their behalf.
The medical alert bracelets are meant to communicate vital patient health information in the event of a medical emergency that renders a patient unable to speak.
This health information covers a number of categories, including medical conditions, medications, allergies, emergency and doctor contacts, insurance information, immunization records, medical procedures, advance medical directives, living will, durable power of attorney, organ donor status, and other information.
The data is assembled in a Responder PHR (Personal Health Record) package, which displays the medical information in an easy-to-read format.
The kit also comes with a keychain, as well as engraved custom acrylic plates that attach to both the bracelet and the keychain.
These engraved plates contain the login information to access the Responder PHR package and a print out of the most vital health information to be read immediately.
The login information, which contains a patient-specific URL (web address) and member number, can be easily accessed by medical professionals from any device with internet access, including a smartphone.
Patients are able to choose the specific medical records that are uploaded to the system, allowing them to share only information that they feel comfortable including in their Responder PHR package.
The medical alert bracelet kit also includes an emergency card, which can either be filled out manually, or inputted online and subsequently printed.
The program is funded by a grant from Genentech, a member of the Roche group.
In addition to questions about personal information and SMA type, the application form asks several questions about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients and their families.
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