Apple’s Medical ID feature could end up saving your life

Apple device aficionados may be swooning over the new iPhone 6, or tapping away on their newly-upgraded iOS 9 phones. But you’d have to look back – about a year back – to see what’s arguably one of the best lesser-known features of the software that some claim could save a life.

And it was released with iOS 8. Yes, 8.

“Medical ID” could loosely be considered the ID bracelet of the 21^st century. The feature, part of the pre-installed Health App, allows users to populate the phone with crucial information that would assist emergency personnel or anyone hoping to help them when in distress. All they have to do is tap the “emergency” button on the lock pad screen, which leads them to important information about the phone’s owner such as name, age, and emergency contact information. When treating patients in distress, paramedics, for instance, can glean potentially crucial information such as blood type, allergies, and even if the user is an organ donor.

Geoff MacBride, President of the Toronto Paramedic Association, tells CityNews the vast majority of the group’s members have not been made aware of this feature.

“Anything like that is definitely a wonderful thing to have for somebody in that situation,” he says. “But a tool is only as good as those aware of its existence.”

Typically, cellphone users have been encouraged to save a contact under the term ICE: In Case of Emergency on their phone. Password-protected devices, however, would inhibit paramedics and do-gooders from accessing such information. With the Medical ID, information is available through the lock screen, which could differentiate this feature from ICE.

“It is critically important that whatever solution a person chooses to use, that it is easily recognized and accessible.”

MedicAlert Canada, which carries the world-known ID emblem on its bracelets, knows a thing or two about keeping crucial information accessible to emergency personnel.  With the advent of Apple’s Medical ID, they have one caution for their clients who require emergency responders to access information quickly.

“As people consider a digital solution, it is important to remember the reason for wearing a medical ID – to quickly convey critical information when a person cannot communicate themselves,” says MedicAlert Foundation Canada CEO Robert Ridge. “To do this, the information must be robust and easy to access, and the first responders and healthcare professionals must know what to look for and how to use it.” Though Ridge could not speak to the intricacies of Apple’s Medical ID, he does add, “It is critically important that whatever solution a person chooses to use, that it is easily recognized and accessible.”

MacBride holds a similar sentiment, and says while this is a great idea, educating responders about it is key, which is why he’s poised to take a next step.

“I’m certainly going to bring it forward to Toronto Paramedic Services,” he says.

To learn how to add Medical ID to your phone, click here.

Note: if ever in medical distress make sure you seek professional attention immediately.