How to Use Medical ID on Your Phone

Medical ID is a feature on your phone that stores critical health information — allergies, medications, medical conditions, blood type, and emergency contacts — that first responders and hospital staff can access even when your phone is locked. This can be life-saving if you are in an accident or medical emergency and cannot communicate.

On iPhone: open the Health app → tap your profile picture (top right) → "Medical ID" → "Edit." Fill in your medical conditions, allergies, medications, blood type, weight, height, and at least one emergency contact. Most importantly, toggle on "Show When Locked" so this information is accessible from the lock screen. Also enable "Share During Emergency Call" to automatically send your Medical ID to emergency services when you call 911.

To access someone's Medical ID in an emergency: on the iPhone lock screen, tap "Emergency" → "Medical ID." This works even if the phone is locked.

On Android: open the Settings app → Safety and Emergency (or "About Phone" → "Emergency Information"). Add medical information and emergency contacts. On newer Android phones, this information is accessible from the lock screen by tapping "Emergency Call" then "Emergency Information."

For both iPhone and Android, make sure your emergency contacts know they are listed. They should have their phone nearby and available, especially for older family members.

Review and update your Medical ID at least once a year or whenever your medications, conditions, or emergency contacts change.