Emergencies happen

Imagine you’re out running errands or meeting friends and suddenly feel unwell. You end up in A&E, and doctors need to act fast. If you’re on a biologic for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, having a simple medical alert card can make all the difference.

Biologics are powerful medicines that help control psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis by targeting the immune system. But because they affect your immunity, you’re more likely to get infections or have complications. Some vaccines and medicines aren’t safe for you, and certain symptoms need urgent attention.

In an emergency, doctors may not know your medical history. If you’re too unwell to explain, they might not realise you’re on a biologic, which could lead to unsafe treatments or missed warning signs.

How a medical alert card helps

A medical alert card is a small card you keep in your wallet or purse. It tells healthcare professionals what medicine you’re on and who your specialist is. This helps them:

• Quickly see you’re on a medicine that affects your immune system.
• Avoid unsafe vaccines and watch for infections.
• Give you and your family peace of mind that you’ll get the right care.

Already recommended

The NHS and many specialists recommend carrying a medical alert card if you’re on a biologic, but not everyone has one. It’s a simple step that could save your life.

What should you do?

If you’re taking a biologic, ask your healthcare provider for a medical alert card. If they don’t have one, tell them that PAPAA can supply them free of charge (UK only).

Keep it with you at all times, update it if your medication changes, and let your family know where to find it.