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    Medical ID Setup

    15 minutes that could save your life.

    Why this matters

    If you fall, faint, or are in an accident, paramedics know to check your phone. Both iPhones and Android phones can show your meds, allergies, blood type, and emergency contacts — even when locked, with no PIN needed.

    iPhone — Medical ID

    1. Open the Health app (white with a pink heart).
    2. Tap your photo or initials in the top right corner.
    3. Tap Medical ID.
    4. Tap Get Started or Edit in the top right.
    5. Fill in: name, date of birth, medical conditions (diabetes, heart, etc.), allergies, medications you take, blood type, organ donor status.
    6. Add Emergency Contacts — usually a spouse and one or two adult children.
    7. VERY IMPORTANT: Turn ON "Show When Locked" — otherwise paramedics can't see it.
    8. Also turn ON "Share During Emergency Call" — this sends your info if you dial 911.
    9. Tap Done.

    How paramedics see it:

    From the lock screen, swipe up or press the side button to see Emergency. They tap "Medical ID" — your info appears. No passcode needed.

    Update it once a year

    Medications change. Phone numbers change. Set a reminder for every January (or your birthday) to open Medical ID and double-check everything.

    For caregivers

    If you help an aging parent — set this up on their phone too. Use a recent photo, list every medication exactly, and add yourself as the emergency contact. ER nurses look for this first thing.