A medical alert system is a lifesaving technology. It is a personal emergency response device that can alert the monitoring center, loved ones, or emergency contacts when the user pushes the assistance button if they need medical attention. However, medical alert systems can be expensive, with monthly charges typically ranging from $20 to $45 aking with additional upfront or service fees. Insurance can cover these costs, allowing one to get access to immediate help.
Medical alert systems under Medicare
Medicare is a health insurance program that the federal government offers to senior citizens. People with Original Medicare get Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) benefits. So, Part A usually covers hospital treatment and care, while Part B can cover outpatient care. While the plans can cover the costs of equipment used in a facility, like hospital beds, canes, walkers, and blood sugar meters, medical alert systems are not covered by Original Medicare. Part C, or Medicare Advantage, is private insurance that can cover part of the cost of medical alert systems. These are Medicare-approved plans provided by authorized private health insurers. One can look up and select health insurance coverage under Medicare Advantage if they want to buy an alert system. Personal emergency response systems (PERS), often known as medical alert devices, are covered by some Part C plans, depending on where one resides, as coverage can change from state to state. A medical alert system may also be free under some plans. However, often, they may come at a 30%–40% discount.
Cost
Depending on the gadget type (at home or on the go), medical alert systems can cost anywhere from $20 to $45 per month. One may have to pay additional fees for installation, activation, and equipment, however, these are often one-time expenses. If the equipment is recognized as a medically required device or is recommended by the doctor, it is likely to be tax deductible if the insurance provider doesn’t pay for it. Additionally, Medicaid (via the Home and Community-Based Services or the Money Follows Individual programs), veteran services, regional Area Agency on Aging organizations, and AARP may help secure financial coverage for a medical alert system.
Medicare Advantage providers
Kaiser Permanente: This company has a clear policy on medical alert systems covered by Medicare Advantage plans. One of the reasons this company is the best-rated provider and has such a high customer satisfaction rating is because of its openness regarding policy advantages. KP policyholders with Medicare can get coverage for a PERS–Lively Mobile Plus.
AARP/UnitedHealthcare: AARP/UnitedHealthcare provides the best coverage because most policyholders can get a free alert system without any limitations. But each plan’s level of coverage may still differ, so one should verify if they get an alert system before signing up.
Humana Medicare: Here, Humana’s Part C plans cover medical alert systems only if the enrollee has congestive heart failure.
Top brands
If one is looking for top affordable brands, here are the best options:
Medical Guardian: This brand offers a variety of medical alert systems, with monthly costs beginning at $29.95.
MobileHelp: Another affordable pick is MobileHelp, which offers plans for singles and couples. The cheapest package, MobileHelp Classic, costs $19.95 a month and requires a cellular connection.
