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iPhone & iPad • Everyday Basics

How do I set up Emergency Medical ID and SOS contacts on my phone?

Direct Answer

Set up Medical ID so first responders and family can access your emergency contacts and medical notes from your lock screen without needing a passcode. On iPhone, open the Health app > Medical ID. On Android, go to Settings > Safety & emergency.

Why You Might Want to Do This

  • To ensure paramedics, doctors, or family can call your emergency contacts if you are ever unwell or lose your phone.
  • To display critical medical notes (allergies, medications, blood type) on your locked screen in an emergency.
  • To give family peace of mind when you travel or go out independently.

Before You Start

  • Your smartphone.
  • Names and phone numbers of 1 or 2 family members or trusted emergency contacts.

Medical ID information can be viewed from your phone lock screen by pressing Emergency > Medical ID, even if the phone is locked with a passcode.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    On iPhone: Open Health App and tap profile

    Open the white app with a red heart named "Health." Tap your profile picture in top-right corner, then tap "Medical ID."

    👀 Red heart Health app icon.

  2. 2

    On Android: Open Settings > Safety & emergency

    Open Settings, scroll down and tap "Safety & emergency" (or "About phone" > "Emergency information").

    👀 Shield or red cross icon labeled Safety & Emergency.

    3. ✅ Success Checkpoint: You're Doing Great

    If your screen matches the description above, you have followed the steps correctly. Continue to the next step.

  3. 3

    Add Emergency Contacts (Family / Loved Ones)

    Tap "Add Emergency Contact" and select your spouse, daughter, son, or close friend from your contact list. Specify your relationship (e.g. Daughter, Spouse).

    👀 Plus sign (+) button to add emergency contact.

  4. 4

    Enter essential health notes and turn ON "Show When Locked"

    Fill in important allergies, medical conditions, and blood type. Make sure "Show When Locked" is turned ON, then tap Done.

    👀 Toggle switch labeled "Show When Locked" set to green/ON.

If You Don't See It / Troubleshooting

How to test if Medical ID works on locked screen

Lock your phone screen, swipe up to passcode screen, tap "Emergency" at bottom-left, then tap "Medical ID." Your details will appear clearly.

Good to Know

  • Pressing and holding the side power button + volume button on iPhone for 5 seconds automatically dials 911 and texts your emergency contacts your location.