If you have an ICD you will be given an ‘ICD identification card’.

This card carries important information about:

• your type of ICD (including the make and model);
• the type of leads;
• the settings (for example, what arrhythmias it is set to detect); and
• the reason for having the ICD.

It is important to carry this card with you at all times so that, should you be taken ill for any reason (including reasons unrelated to your cardiomyopathy), doctors will have access to your information. It is also helpful for any routine medical appointments, and for things like if you are going on holiday.

Some people with medical conditions carry some form of medical identification (or ‘medical ID’). This might be a bracelet, watch or necklace. Medical ID carries details of your medical condition, and some also have details of your treatment. You may like to consider having a form of ID that says you have a medical device. This may give added reassurance, alongside you identification card, should medical help need to be called for you (such as an ambulance). 

Read our information on ‘Medical jewellery and ID’.

Order a free ‘I have cardiomyopathy’ ID card.

©Cardiomyopathy UK. April 2018