Before heading out the door in the morning, you probably grab your wallet, keys, purse or other essentials. But do you remember to take important health information and medicines with you?

Three simple steps could prove to be a lifesaver: keeping a health information card, wearing a medical ID tag and preparing for travel.

Personal health cards

Use an index card or similar tool to jot down major health issues that may be important in a medical emergency. Keep it into your wallet so you'll always have it. Make extra copies for your car or office.

One side of the card, include the basics: your name, birthdate, address, phone numbers and email address, along with this medical background:

• Blood type
• Health insurance information, including individual and group numbers
• Names and contact numbers of doctors
• Emergency contact numbers (e.g., family members)

On the other side of the card, list any conditions and disabilities and information about:

• Medications taken
• Medical equipment, such as an insulin pump or implanted medical or prosthetic devices
• Allergies, from seasonal woes to drug allergies
• Immunization and vaccination dates
• Any special assistance needed

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