Dogtags are a good idea, although I haven't worn one since getting out of the military. A blood patch could be useful at least to tell them your blood type.

I like the sharpie idea when going in for an operation. Good thinking.

When I go cycling, I carry my spare D/L which has a sticker on the back, not interfering with the magnetic strip, with wife's cell/ofc numbers, blood type, allergies, other pertinent info, then a piece of clear packing tape over the sticker to keep it more or less waterproof. Thankfully I've never needed to use it, but like all my other EDC, I'm prepared. Also have dogtags I were when going into the wilderness, mostly for body ID, not medical reference.

I wear no jewelry or watch and have been resisting the medical alert / dogtag / wrist band solution. Is there a practical alternative?

A prominently visible "medical info" card in your wallet.

yup..i don't carry much in my wallet but i do have my Vets Hospital ID in there.back in the 70's we would have a clerk fetch a medical record from the file room and the ER MD would read out stuff over the phone,now it's by computer link.

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RoadID is the best IMHO. They even have very sturdy dogtags if you want to keep that style. I have always purchased the ankle bracelet for my cycling and running. They just came out with the 'elite'. A gel wrist band. I will be getting that for Christmas.

Tattoo.

If you have a significant medical condition, then you need to quit resisting getting a MedicalAlert device. That is the practical solution.

Pete

I'm glad to hear some positive experiences with that. Every time I've given a doctor or pharmacist such a list they treat me like I'm a hypochondriac anal-retentive freakshow to be regarded with suspicion. Instead of what I am: a responsible patient who is trying to make their job easier, or trying to make sure I don't get the wrong treatment due to their laziness. *eye roll*

Not excusing anyone Y T but many people who start listing their various ailments and meds to medical providers are at least mildly hypochondriacs...not that it's a bad thing to be.

I hear it a lot, I'm trying to help a pt. with some first aid/bandaid and the next thing I know they're giving me their families medical history...;^)

But you're right, it really is better to be more prepared than not.

I think a lot of folks who get negative reactions from healthcare as well as fire and rescue personnel when they appear to be prepared are really just seeing simple shock on the part of the provider. ;^)