The monthly cost of acquiring and maintaining a medical alert system may challenge the budgets of some older adults. Thankfully, there are ways to reduce or even eliminate the cost of using these life-saving devices. Here’s what you need to know about medical alert systems, along with your best bets for circumventing high equipment and monthly monitoring fees.
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What Is a Medical Alert System?
A medical alert system is also known as personal emergency response system, medical emergency response system, health monitor or fall monitor. It’s designed to monitor and signal an emergency situation that requires immediate assistance. Usually, they’re home devices that provide a person with the means to contact emergency assistance quickly. They are primarily marketed to send help after a fall or other medical emergency, but some devices are equipped to send help for police emergencies as well. In addition, there are alert systems that send emergency assistance outside the home wherever the user goes and wears the alert device. These systems might include internet connectivity through a phone or tablet, as well as GPS technology.
How Much Does a Medical Alert System Typically Cost?
The cost of a medical alert system will vary depending on the device, including equipment costs, add-on features and monthly fees. Initial equipment costs can range anywhere from free to nearly $150. Monthly fees may range anywhere from $29.95 to $49.95 per month. Other features, such as automatic fall detection may cost an additional $5 to $11 per month.
How to Get a Free or Reduced Price Medical Alert System
Your ability to obtain a free medical alert system depends on your financial circumstances and insurance coverage.
Private insurance: There are few private insurers that pay for medical alert devices, but in some instances, the device can be a tax deduction if it’s considered medically necessary equipment and prescribed by a doctor.
Medicare: Original Medicare parts A and B don’t cover medical alert devices. However, certain devices can be covered through a Medicare Advantage plan if a doctor documents that the device is medically necessary.
Medicaid: Some older adults who qualify for Medicaid also qualify for Medicaid-funded waiver programs, such as Home and Community Based Services, which provide services that the individual needs to remain in their home safely. Waiver programs, which vary from state to state, may provide medical alert systems for participants. What’s more, if an individual on Medicaid has been in a nursing home for 90 days, they may qualify for a Money Follows the Individual program, in which they are assessed for the accommodation(s) they need before being discharged from the nursing home. A medical alert device is provided for them if needed.
Veterans: The VA provides medical alert devices for veterans, but the veteran must use a VA-approved vendor. These include the brands MedEquipAlert and Latitude Mobile.
Area Agency on Aging: If you or your loved one don’t qualify for any of the programs mentioned above, contact your local Area Agency on Aging for nearby support options. Some centers provide scholarships for older adults needing medical alert devices.
AARP: AARP members can save 15% on medical alert services, as well as receive free shipping and waived activation fees. This offer is available online and via phone through the brand Lifeline. Simply call Lifeline and mention your AARP membership.
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Why Should I Have a Medical Alert System?
Because help is available quickly, medical alert systems empower many older adults to remain in their homes and retain some measure of independence. They also help you feel an additional sense of safety if you’re at risk of falling or have other health conditions that require continued monitoring.
“There’s the concept of aging in place,” says Jason Garbarino, a nurse practitioner, director of the undergraduate nursing program at the University of Vermont and Forbes Health Advisory Board member. ”A majority of older people would rather remain in their homes over institutional care,” he says. “Medical alert systems foster that continued autonomy.”
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How Can a Medical Alert System Help You?
Depending on the device you choose, medical alert systems can assist with:
- Activity monitoring and movement tracking
- Fall detection
- Daily check-ins
- Socialization and connection with family members and friends
- Home security
What’s more, according to a recent Forbes Health survey of 2,000 U.S. adults conducted by OnePoll, of respondents who report using a medical alert system, 86% say the device has saved them (or the person they care for) from an incident at least once. Looking closer, 50% say their medical alert system saved them from a potential catastrophe, and 36% say it saved them from an incident that could have escalated.
Types of Medical Alert Systems
There are several kinds of medical alert systems. The base of the system is typically a small box that can be placed on a table or nightstand. The system is activated by a button on a bracelet or necklace worn by the user. Some alert systems offer services like automatic fall detection or GPS technology so emergency personnel can locate the individual calling for help no matter where they might be. Some medical alert systems also have apps for smartphones and other smart devices, which can connect caregivers and loved ones to the system user, help them manage their medications and more.
The type of medical alert system that’s best for you or your loved one depends on specific needs and preferences. If a family member is looking for a medical alert device for a loved one, Linda Keilman, a gerontological nurse, faculty member at Michigan State University College of Nursing and Forbes Health Advisory Board member, recommends that family members first talk to their loved one and “engage them in meaningful conversations about quality of life and safety issues.”
Here are some questions to consider asking about medical alert devices, according to Keilman:
- How much does the device cost?
- Can the user operate the system, or is it too complicated for them to manage independently?
- How fast is the connection to emergency service?
- Does the device offer automatic fall detection?
- Is the alarm button waterproof, and can it be worn in the shower or tub?
Key Features of Medical Alert Systems
When it comes to the wearable itself, some people may prefer a necklace that can be hidden under clothing while others may prefer a bracelet so they don’t forget they have access to help. Meanwhile, tech-savvy users may prefer to use a medical alert system on their smartphone, which often offers more sophisticated features like GPS navigation, heart rate tracking and SMS texting capabilities.
The speed of emergency response is a priority as well, says Garbarino. He has observed systems where the user was placed on hold for a lengthy period of time before the emergency operator responded. Another priority, he adds, is whether the user is going to be able to activate the device when they need it.
Specific medical alert features aside, Garbarino says it’s vital to know that the system user won’t hesitate to activate the alarm when necessary. Some older people may feel self-conscious about using a medical alert device.
“Families can play a role in addressing this stigma,” he says. “They can reassure the individual that using the medical alert device is appropriate.”
Does Medicare or Medicaid cover medical alert systems?
Generally, Medicare does not cover the cost of medical alert systems but you may be able to pay for them via other means. Original Medicare Part A and Part B also do not cover these costs, however, those enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan may have access to additional benefits. For details, contact your plan directly.
As noted above, some older adults may be eligible for Medicaid-funded waiver programs which may offer medical alert systems. If a need is determined, those who qualify for Medicaid and have been in a nursing home for 90 days may also be given a medical alert system when discharged.
Does insurance cover medical alert bracelets?
Private insurance companies generally do not cover the cost of medical alert systems. However, depending on your provider, you may be offered discounts or referrals. Check with your provider to determine options available to you.
Does the VA pay for medical alert devices?
The VA, or the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, covers the costs of two basic medical alert systems for veterans, the MedEquip Alert and Latitude Mobile Alert devices. Each may be fairly basic technologically, with varying features. For example, the MedEquip Alert does not include automatic fall detection, while the Latitude Mobile Alert does offer it.
Does TRICARE cover medical alert devices?
No, TRICARE does not cover the costs of medical alert systems. TRICARE is the uniformed services health care program for active duty service members and their families, members of the National Guard and Reserve and their families, those who are retired and their family members, certain former spouses and survivors across the globe.
