A vital signs monitoring and communicating system comprises a strap worn by a patient which monitors vital signs and sends data wirelessly to a portable computing device in the form of a tablet. The tablet has means such as a hook, allowing the tablet to be hung from a bed, cot or backpack. The tablet incorporates an ultrasound scanner. The strap includes a pin which, when pressed, changes a colour of a display on the strap to indicate the patient suffers from allergies. The tablet includes applications for displaying and monitoring patient details and medical data such as name, date of birth, prescribed medication, medical history. The tablet includes fingerprint and retina scanners. The tablet and strap communicate via Bluetooth (RTM). The tablet and strap may be carried by paramedics for use in emergency situations (see figure 2). The system may be used for monitoring animals as well as humans.
