Management

People With Diabetes Need to Wear Medical Identification (ID)

Choose a preferred language

Wearing medical identification (ID) at all times is a good idea if you have diabetes. That's especially the case in an emergency. Those helping you will know right away that you have diabetes.

Your condition is engraved on the medical ID. Allergies can also be listed. Your medicines can be on it too. You can even have emergency contacts put on it. Talk with your doctor if you're not sure about what to put on your ID.

Wearing a medical ID makes it less likely that your condition will be diagnosed wrong. You will also be less likely to get medicines that you're allergic to. You'll get the right care more quickly as well.

It's very important to wear a medical ID while exercising. This is when low blood sugar is more likely to happen. Always wear your ID when traveling, too. Your ID will tell others that you have diabetes even in other countries.

You can be safe and stylish wearing a medical ID. They come as:

  • Pendants.
  • Watchbands.
  • Necklaces.
  • Bracelets.
  • Silicone bands.
  • Shoe tags.
  • Sports bands.
  • Tattoos.

Some of these IDs can be linked to devices. They alert emergency response systems when you have fallen or need help. Others have location trackers or small USB drives that hold your whole health record.

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Related Articles
Read article
Diabetes
Checking Ketones

Here are images showing how to treat high blood sugar when you have diabetes.

Read article
Diabetes
Eating Out When You Have Diabetes

Eating right is an important part of keeping your blood sugar in target range. Learn how to make healthy choices when you eat out.

Read article
Diabetes
Diabetes: Ways to Take Medicine

A helpful look at the different ways to take diabetes medicine.

Read article
Diabetes
Understanding Diabetes: Cognitive Changes

Cognitive impairment (decline) affects your ability to think and reason. You may find you have trouble remembering, understanding, planning, or communicating. It can hamper your ability to problem-solve and make decisions. These problems can be frustrating and may lead to poor diabetes control.