Medical alert bracelet featuring the Star of Life symbol — the universal medical emergency symbol

The snake with the staff is often referred to as a medical emergency alert symbol which represents health and healing. The snake and staff themselves have special meanings that you may have wondered about. Especially, seeing as it is often found displayed on hospitals, medical centres, ambulances, watches, phones and, of course, medibands, to name but a few applications. If you're curious about how the medical emergency alert symbol came about and what it means, read on.

There are two variations to the medical alert symbol — the Staff of Asclepius and the Caduceus symbol. Both actually have VERY different meanings!

The Staff of Asclepius

The Staff of Asclepius — single snake wrapped around a rod, symbol of medicine and healing

The Rod of Asclepius takes its name from the Greek god Asclepius. It has a single snake wrapped around the staff. It's important to note that Asclepius was Apollo's son and a Greek doctor, widely known for his healing powers. The Ancient Greeks regarded him as the god of medicine and healing. There are stories of Asclepius bringing the dead back to life.

The Caduceus Symbol

The Caduceus symbol — two snakes and wings, often mistakenly used as a medical emergency symbol

The second "medical alert" symbol is the Caduceus. The Caduceus has two snakes wrapped around a staff with wings on the top. The wings are a tribute to the god Hermes, and it references his speed. He's a messenger in Greek myth, and he has winged shoes. The modern depiction of the caduceus is actually the symbol of commerce — it is often mistakenly used as a medical alert device.

People believe the staff found on both versions of the medical alert symbol comes from the Old Testament Book of Numbers, and the story of Moses. God chose Moses to lead the Jewish people to the promised land. In this section of the Old Testament, God speaks to Moses and tells him to get a staff and a snake. God then uses these items to heal people through Moses. A bite from a snake could be a medical emergency if the snake has venom. This is widely believed to be why snakes play a central role in the design. Nevertheless, the symbol is easy to recognise, no matter which one is on your medical ID bracelet.

The Star Of Life

Star of Life — the six-pointed emergency medical services symbol used on ambulances worldwide

The six-pointed star is the Star of Life and it has been in circulation since 1967. Initially, the Star of Life has traditionally been used as a means of identification for medical personnel, equipment, and vehicles. Outstandingly, many ambulance services worldwide use the symbol to mark their vehicles. Also, ambulance crews often wear the design as part of their uniform. Additionally, it appears on various medical textbooks as well as on a wide range of merchandise aimed at the medic market. Each of the six points of the star of life has a meaning:

1. Detection

The first rescuers, otherwise known as first responders, on the scene — usually untrained civilians or those involved in the incident — observe the scene, understand the problem, identify the dangers to themselves and others, and take appropriate measures to ensure their safety. It is this first moment in time when a medical emergency alert ID can save precious time and result in better prognosis and outcomes for the patient.

2. Reporting

The call for professional help is made and dispatch is connected with the victims, providing emergency medical dispatch. It is important to note that different countries use a variety of call codes. For example, 911 for the USA, 000 for Australia, and 999 for the UK.

3. Response

The first rescuers provide first aid and immediate care to the extent of their capabilities.

4. On-Scene Care

The EMS personnel arrive and provide immediate care to the extent of their capabilities on-scene.

5. Care in Transit

The EMS personnel proceed to transfer the patient to a hospital via an ambulance or helicopter for specialised care. Medical care is provided during transportation by EMS.

6. Transfer to Definitive Care

Appropriate specialised care is provided at the hospital. The Star of Life represents the full continuum of emergency medical services — from the first moment of detection to hospital admission.

Why the Medical Alert Symbol is Important

The medical alert symbol is one of the most widely recognised symbols in the world. It has a long history of use, and it's easy to add to your medical ID bracelet. The symbol also provides people with peace of mind — with first responders recognising it at a glance in an emergency, even if you aren't able to tell them so.

Paramedics are trained to look for this symbol before they commence treating a person. It gives them vital clues to the person's medical history — their condition, allergies, life-saving medications, and emergency contacts. A medical ID bracelet bearing the Star of Life is a universally understood signal that the wearer has important medical information that needs to be considered before treatment begins.

Medical Alert Bracelets Featuring the Star of Life

Mediband medical ID bracelets — silicone and stainless steel medical alert bracelets featuring the Star of Life

Mediband has several different medical ID bracelets available — from silicone write-on bands perfect for active lifestyles, to premium stainless steel and gold medical ID bracelets. Each bracelet is designed to be durable, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic, making them safe for everyday wear.

You can purchase pre-made bracelets with conditions like asthma, diabetes, or epilepsy already printed. If you don't see your specific condition, Mediband can customise your bracelet to suit you. Since the silicone bracelets come in bold colour choices, they're easy to spot in an emergency — when time is critical and paramedics need to act fast. Browse the full Mediband range to find the right medical ID for your needs.