Medical alert systems, sometimes known as personal emergency response systems, are designed to provide peace of mind and swift assistance during emergencies. This is especially important for people with health issues who live alone. (1)
Medical alert systems are particularly beneficial for the older adult population. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one out of every four older Americans falls each year, making falls a leading cause of injury. (2) A reliable medical alert system can ensure immediate help is available, potentially reducing the risk of long-term injury.
“As people age, they may experience a decline in muscle strength, balance, and coordination, increasing their risk of falling,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta. “The quick response from a medical alert system after a fall is detected can prevent prolonged periods without treatment.”
Our team explores these critical devices because they offer vital safety nets, allowing users to call for help with the push of a button. Here’s how these systems work, their benefits, and key features to be aware of.
Meet the expert
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, the Chief Medical Advisor for Fortune Recommends, provided valuable insight for this piece. With quadruple board certifications in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care, and sleep medicine, Dr. Raj brings a comprehensive understanding of complex health issues that significantly benefit our discussion on medical alert systems. His extensive background in clinical research and teaching, coupled with direct experience in managing emergency medical situations, makes his expertise particularly relevant. Dr. Raj’s role ensures that our exploration of medical alert systems is grounded in expert medical knowledge and tailored to the needs of those who rely on these life-saving technologies.
Pros and cons of medical alert systems
What is a medical alert system?
A medical alert system is a device designed for individuals who may require immediate medical assistance, especially older adults or those with certain health conditions, putting them at increased risk for emergencies. These systems, often worn as medical alert necklaces or pendants, wristbands, or watches, provide a direct line to emergency services, caregivers, or family members in times of need. (3)
Timely access to medical help through these devices can be life-saving, particularly in reducing the severe aftermath of falls in seniors. (4) The functionality of medical alert systems extends beyond medical emergencies, serving as a daily reassurance and peace of mind for both users and their families, ensuring that help is always just a button push away. (5)
“When someone gets injured or experiences a medical emergency, getting help right away is imrpotant. Not only does it allow doctors and nurses to properly assess the situation and stabilize any life-threatening conditions, but it can also prevent further complications.”
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, Fortune Recommends Medical Advisor
How do medical alert systems work?
Medical alert systems provide a reliable means of securing emergency assistance with minimal effort. These systems generally consist of three primary components: the base unit, the wearable device, and the monitoring service. (6)
- The base unit: The base unit is typically installed in a central location within the user’s home and is connected to the home’s phone line or a mobile network. This connection is crucial as it facilitates communication with the monitoring center.
- The wearable device: The wearable device, often a pendant or wristband, is equipped with a help button that the user can press in an emergency. Some systems also include additional wall-mounted help buttons that can be placed in high-risk areas such as the bathroom or kitchen for added accessibility.
- The monitoring center: When the user presses the help button, a signal is sent to the base unit, which then automatically contacts the monitoring center. This triggers an immediate response from the center, where trained operators are available 24/7. Upon receiving the alert, an operator will attempt to communicate with the user through the base unit’s two-way communication system. This feature allows the operator to assess the situation directly by speaking with the user to understand the nature of the emergency. If emergency services are needed, the operator will dispatch them to the user’s location, providing them with any vital information that might help. The operator can also contact loved ones listed as emergency contacts. This comprehensive response system ensures that users receive the help they need as quickly as possible, tailored to the specific circumstances of their emergency.
Types of medical alert systems
Medical alert systems are mainly categorized into at-home and mobile systems.
At-home systems
At-home medical alert systems are designed to act as a reliable safety net for individuals, particularly those who spend significant time at home or may require urgent assistance due to health or mobility issues. These systems are anchored by a base station, connecting to either the user’s home phone line or a mobile network, ensuring coverage even if traditional landlines aren’t available.
The core component of these systems is a wearable emergency button that the user can press in an emergency. These buttons are usually fashioned as a pendant or wristband. Some systems also offer additional help buttons that can be mounted on walls throughout the home in areas where falls are likely, such as bathrooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. This setup ensures that assistance is always within reach, no matter where in the home an incident might occur.
The simplicity of at-home medical alert systems, combined with their direct access to assistance, makes them a dependable choice for individuals seeking to maintain their independence while ensuring safety in their home environment. The system’s ease of use and the swift connection help provide not only physical safety but also comfort for the user and their loved ones, knowing that help is just a button press away.
Mobile systems
Mobile medical alert systems provide a dynamic and flexible solution for individuals who are active and often on the go, offering them peace of mind regardless of their location. These portable devices are designed to be carried or worn, and they function using cellular networks, ensuring they operate anywhere cell service is available. This wide-ranging capability is particularly beneficial for older adults who are active, travelers or anyone who values having access to immediate assistance both in and outside of their homes.
The key feature of mobile systems is built-in GPS technology, which plays a crucial role during emergencies by enabling precise location tracking. When the user presses the help button on their device, it not only connects them to a monitoring center but also transmits their exact location to emergency responders. This ensures that help can be dispatched directly to the user, regardless of whether they’re in unfamiliar or remote areas. This is vital for timely and efficient assistance.
Mobile medical alert systems are especially advantageous for active older adults, providing a sense of security that encourages them to maintain mobility and independence. By ensuring that users can seek help with ease anytime and anywhere, these systems significantly contribute to the safety and well-being of individuals who are often away from home.
“Medical alert systems provide quick access to emergency assistance, which provides a peace of mind for seniors and their caregivers. It also offers them the confidence to freely go about their daily activities without constant supervision.”
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM, Fortune Recommends Medical Advisor
Who should use a medical alert system?
Medical alert systems are beneficial for anyone prone to medical emergencies, such as older adults, especially those living alone or with mobility issues, and people with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or epilepsy. By providing immediate access to emergency services, these systems can drastically reduce the time it takes to receive medical care after a fall or other emergencies, which is often crucial for recovery and can even save lives. (7)
Todd Plumer, a firefighter with South Metro Fire Rescue in Denver, stresses the importance of these devices.
“I would recommend a medical alert system to anyone living alone. People don’t always have their phones on them to call for help. I have responded to numerous calls in which the user activated their medical alert device in situations where they did not have access to their phone.”
Todd Plumer, South Metro Fire Rescue
How much do medical alert systems cost?
The cost of medical alert systems varies significantly depending on the features, services, and whether the system is at-home or portable. Users typically pay a monthly fee ranging from $20 to $60, which covers continuous monitoring and immediate access to a response center ready to handle emergencies. (8)
Additional costs may include an initial setup or activation fee. Advanced features like fall detection or GPS tracking can raise the monthly price due to the added technology and service requirements. Equipment costs also vary; some providers include the necessary equipment in the monthly fee, while others may charge a one-time purchase or rental fee of up to $350.
The overall cost of a medical alert system extends beyond the device and monitoring services. Subscriptions often provide 24/7 access to trained professionals who assess situations and dispatch appropriate help, along with maintenance and replacement of batteries to ensure uninterrupted system reliability.
Many providers offer customizable plans with optional add-ons such as medication reminders, activity monitoring, and daily wellness check-ins for an additional fee. These features create a more comprehensive safety net tailored to individual lifestyle and health needs.
Does Medicare, Medicaid, or health insurance cover medical alert systems?
Medicare generally does not cover medical alert systems under its Original Medicare plan (Part A and Part B), as these devices are considered “personal comfort items” and not medically necessary. However, some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) may include benefits that cover medical alert systems or offer them at a discounted rate. These plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare and can provide additional benefits beyond what Original Medicare covers.
Medicaid coverage for medical alert systems can vary by state, as Medicaid is a joint federal and state program. Some states may offer assistance through Medicaid for the purchase of a medical alert system, especially if the individual can demonstrate a medical need for the device. This assistance could be part of a waiver program or through Medicaid’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS).
Private health insurance policies might also cover or partially cover the cost of medical alert systems, particularly if prescribed by a doctor as necessary for the individual’s health. Individuals should check their specific insurance plan details or contact their insurance provider to understand the coverage options available for medical alert systems.
How to choose a medical alert system
Choosing the right medical alert system is crucial for ensuring safety and peace of mind for users and their families. When selecting a system, it’s important to consider a range of features that cater to the user’s specific needs. Here are some key features to consider:
- Fall detection: Automatically alerts emergency services or designated contacts if a fall is detected. This feature is particularly vital for those with mobility issues or conditions that increase the risk of falls, as it ensures that help is dispatched even if the user cannot press the emergency button.
- Daily check-ins: Involves regular calls or messages from the monitoring center to ensure the user is safe and well. This can be reassuring for both the user and their family, providing an extra layer of support and immediate attention if something seems amiss.
- Activity monitoring: Tracks physical activity and health metrics, such as steps taken, which can be essential for maintaining or improving health. Increasing daily step counts has been associated with a reduced risk of death, and having a system that encourages and monitors activity can be a significant benefit. (9)
- Two-way communication: Allows the user to speak directly with a response center representative. This ensures that any help provided can be tailored to the specific needs of the situation and also allows users to quickly cancel false alarms, enhancing the system’s efficiency and reliability.
- GPS tracking: Location tracking services are essential for users who are active and often outside the home. This feature is crucial during emergencies, especially in unfamiliar areas. It ensures that emergency services can find the user quickly and accurately, no matter where they are.
- Medication reminders: Helps users manage their health routines. These alerts can be programmed to remind the user to take their medications or attend appointments at prescribed times, which helps maintain health and prevents medication errors.
When choosing a medical alert system, it’s also important to consider factors such as the cost of the service, the reliability of the monitoring center, and the ease of use of the equipment. Reviews and recommendations from other users and healthcare providers can also be helpful in making a decision. Ultimately, the right system should align with the user’s lifestyle, provide the necessary support to ensure their safety, and offer security to both the user and their loved ones.
FAQs
Are medical alert systems worth it?
Medical alert systems are often worth the investment, particularly for older adults, individuals living alone, or those with medical conditions that could result in emergencies. These systems provide peace of mind by ensuring that help is readily available at the touch of a button. The benefits of having a medical alert system are particularly evident in the statistics on falls and emergencies among the elderly. The faster the response after an emergency like a fall, the better the outcomes in terms of health and recovery. (2) Therefore, the cost of a medical alert system is frequently justified by its potential to save lives and reduce hospital stays through timely medical intervention.
Do medical alert systems require Wi-Fi?
Not all medical alert systems require Wi-Fi. Many systems use a landline or cellular network to connect the user with the monitoring center. At-home systems typically operate through a base station connected to a landline, while mobile systems generally use cellular networks to ensure coverage outside the home. Some advanced systems may use Wi-Fi for additional features like activity monitoring or checking in on the user’s location, but Wi-Fi is not a standard requirement for basic emergency alert functions.
Which medical alert systems are covered by Medicare?
Medicare generally does not cover the cost of medical alert systems under its Original Medicare plan (Part A and Part B). These systems are categorized as “personal comfort items” and not deemed medically necessary under Medicare guidelines. However, some Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) might offer coverage or discounts for medical alert systems as an added benefit. It’s important for individuals to check with their Medicare Advantage provider to see if such benefits are included in their plan. Some insurance companies that offer MAS coverage include AARP/United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield/Anthem, Humana, Kaiser, Aetna, and Wellcare.
Our experts
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD, FACP, FCCP, FAASM
Quadruple-board certified in pulmonary, sleep, internal, and critical care medicine. An active clinical researcher, Dr. Raj is currently an Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, and the Associate Program Director of Internal Medicine Residency at Huntington Health, an affiliate of Cedars Sinai.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Lauren Sherman, MS
Fortune Recommends Writer
About Author
Lauren Sherman brings a blend of academic rigor and practical application to her role as a health content expert. With a Master’s degree in Human Genetics from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Lauren combines deep scientific knowledge with real-world experience gained at National Jewish Health and Children’s Hospital Colorado. She specializes in creating authoritative and engaging content tailored to aging adults, drawing on her extensive research into products and strategies that enhance the quality of life for this demographic. Her work is informed by personal experience, having navigated the aging process with her own parents, and is underpinned by a commitment to providing actionable insights for her readers. Lauren’s contributions can be found on renowned platforms such as NCOA.org, HelpGuide.org, and MarketWatch.com, where she addresses complex health topics with clarity and compassion.