Medical Emergency Calling Aid (MECA)

A reliable, miniaturized, and economical system is described which allows a person to summon multihelp automatically from his private home in case of any emergency such as an accident, medical problem, or for defense against intruders. The system is formed by: 1) a miniaturized radio transmitter carried by the individual; 2) a receiver which can be activated from a distance of 20-100 m; 3) an electronic programmer activated by the receiver which triggers a sequence of calls through a dialer and sends coded sound signals; and 4) an automatic telephone dialer able to call four or more predetermined numbers asking for help. Regular telephone lines are used for the calls which, therefore, may be sent anywhere in the country or in the world. In our experience, carrying the minitransmitter provides a sensation of personal security which is most important for the medical and psychological welfare of the subject. In addition, it provides real security, assuring rapid assistance when needed.