Is it possible to get a medical alert system for free?
These expenses can quickly put a strain on seniors’ budgets, so many elderly adults search for free monitoring devices. Finding a medical alert system at no cost isn’t easy, but it’s possible. We’ve compiled several options below to help you narrow down your search for a complimentary medical alert system.
Does Medicare cover medical alert systems?
Does Medicare Cover Medical Alert Systems? Part B of Original Medicare covers durable medical equipment, such as hospital beds, canes, walkers, and blood sugar meters. 1 By that definition, you might expect Medicare to cover medical alert systems. Unfortunately, though, Medicare does not cover medical alert systems.
Do you qualify for a discount on medical alert systems?
VA discounts: If you're a veteran, you may qualify for a discount on a medical alert system. Some companies discount the equipment, some give a price break on the monthly service, and some offer discounts on both.
How does the alert1 medical alert for your home work?
The Alert1 medical alert for your home is a landline-based device that doesn’t require WiFi. It has a 600 ft range and connects you to the Alert1 support center when you press the button on the pendant. This is one of the smaller buttons, but it’s still very obviously a medical alert button, which might put some seniors off wearing it.
Does Medicare pay for a medical alert device?
Medical alert systems can cost more than $100 and require monthly subscription fees from $20 to $55, plus more for additional services like automatic fall detection. Medicare doesn't cover medical alert systems, but there are other ways to reduce or eliminate the cost.
How do I get a free medical alert button?
You can also contact senior centers in your area and ask for local resources. Nonprofit organizations may provide grants to help you cover the cost. Several medical alert companies provide a medical alert system without monthly fees, but be sure your purchase includes 24/7 emergency monitoring.
Does Medicare pay for alert button?
Medicare won't pay for medical alert systems, but Medicare Advantage or Medicaid may help pay for some or all of the costs. Contacting a device company directly to ask about discounts can provide cost-savings.
What is the average cost of a medical alert system?
$19.95 to $49.95 per monthOn average, medical alert systems range in price from $19.95 to $49.95 per month, plus equipment costs. Medical Alert's plans fall within this spectrum, and importantly, the brand offers free activation, no charge for equipment, no hidden fees, and no long-term contracts.
What is the cheapest medical alert system for seniors?
Compare the most affordable medical alert systemsCompanyMinimum monthly priceBest overall valueGetSafe$24.95Most affordable cellular systemMobileHelp$19.95Most affordable fall detectionAloe Care Health$24.99Best for couplesBay Alarm Medical$21.951 more row
Do all medical alert systems have a monthly fee?
Medical alert systems typically require a monthly monitoring fee, equipment fee, or both. Medical alert devices without monthly fees eliminate monitoring, but you'll still pay an upfront equipment fee. In other words, you are buying the system outright.
Does Medicare cover senior alert?
Medicare does not cover Life Alert Systems, but some discounts may be available. While Medicare Part B offers coverage for durable medical equipment, medical alert systems do not qualify.
How can I get a free medical alert necklace?
Contact a Local Hospital Some hospitals provide free medical alert bracelets, and it's worth calling the hospitals in your area. If a hospital doesn't offer that service, ask if they can refer you to a local foundation or agency that provides medical alert bracelets free or at a discount.
How much is Life Alert cost a month?
between $49.95 and $69.95 per monthHow Much Does Life Alert Cost? Life Alert costs between $49.95 and $69.95 per month depending on whether you choose the in-home or GPS system. There are also one time fees that cost between $96 and $198 up-front for things like equipment, activation, shipping and installation.
What is the highest rated medical alert system for seniors?
Top 10 Best Medical Alert Systems for Seniors in 2022LifeFone: Best value.Medical Care Alert: Best monitoring center.Aloe Care: Best for remote caregiving.QMedic: Best for high-risk patients.GetSafe: Best voice-activated system.Lively: Fastest call response times.Philips Lifeline: Most trusted brand.More items...•
Which medical alert does AARP recommend?
Right now, Philips Lifeline is the only medical alert provider on AARP's list of companies offering discounts to AARP members. AARP's discount list is updated regularly, so it's always worth checking to see if more medical alert companies have been added before signing up for an emergency call monitoring service.
Which Is Better Life Alert or medical alert?
Generally, we recommend Medical Alert over Life Alert for their low costs and no contracts. Medical Alert's pricing is less expensive whether you choose the monthly, semi-annual or annual plan. Medical Alert also includes two buttons with each plan so that a spouse or significant other is covered for no additional fee.
Does Medicare Part C cover medical alert systems?
Yes, you may have success getting reimbursement from Medicare Part C. Medicare Part C is a supplemental plan that helps cover the cost of medically...
Does Medicare Advantage cover medical alert systems?
Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part C are the same thing. Medicare Advantage may cover the cost of medical alert systems if the insurance program...
What are some conditions that may qualify for a Medicare-funded alert system?
Medicare doesn’t have a list of specific conditions that may benefit from medical alert systems. Instead, the insurance program focuses on the need...
Do all Medicaid plans offer coverage for medical alert systems?
Not all Medicaid plans cover the cost of medical alert systems. You may need to request a waiver from Medicaid if you want help covering medical al...
How do you request help for medical alert systems from Medicaid?
Contact your Medicaid provider by dialing the number on the back of your card. You can also call 2-1-1 if you need help locating a local agency tha...
Which Medicaid waivers or programs may cover medical alert systems?
Medicaid waivers and programs vary across the nation, but here are some that may help cover the cost of medical alert systems: Money Follows the Pe...
How does Medicaid classify medical alert systems?
Medicaid classifies medical alert systems as Personal Emergency Response Services (PERS). Medicaid covers the costs of PERS for qualifying subscrib...
Does the VA pay for medical alert devices?
The Department of Veterans Affairs covers the cost of a medical alert system from an approved provider. Currently, the VA pays for a qualifying sen...
Does TRICARE cover medical alert devices?
TRICARE may cover the cost of a medical alert device for retired military professionals and their spouses, but coverage isn’t guaranteed.
Medical Alert Companies
Some companies offer free medical alert systems, such as Assistive Technology Services, which offers a small number of medical alerts to low-income seniors in need. Some of the top brands such as Bay Alarm and Medical Guardian will offer you free equipment if you give them a call, however, it will come with monthly or quarterly fees.
Veterans Services
If you are a veteran, you may have more options to get a free medical alert device from companies such as LiveLife personal mobile alarms. Also, there are Veterans Affairs grants and Veteran Directed Care programs that may be able to help.
Medicare Advantage
While Medicare does not cover medical alert systems, certain Medicare Advantage providers might cover a system. Look into Medicare Advantage plans to see if one covers a device. Medicare Advantage plans are private Medicare plans that cover a more comprehensive range of services in addition to covering Parts A and B.
Medicaid
Medicaid will be more likely to provide help than Medicare for a medical alert device. If you are on Medicaid assisted living help, those programs may cover a medical alert system. Medicaid Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) programs and waivers (also called 1915 waivers) may provide coverage, as well as Medicaid Managed Care Programs.
State Assistive Technology Programs
Check with your state’s Assistive Technology Programs reuse centers, online exchanges, or loan closets. In this case, the term “assistive technology devices” applies to any technology that allows someone to complete a task which they otherwise could not complete. Check with your state for more information.
Where to Start?
The best place to start is your local Area Agency on Aging to see what kinds of benefits they offer. Find the contact information for the Medicaid office in your state here .
How much does a medical alert system cost?
1. Medical Guardian. Medical Guardian offers a wide variety of medical alert systems, with monthly prices starting at $29.95 per month. The Classic Guardian, Medical Guardian's most affordable option, comes with a landline base unit with a 1,300-foot range and 32-hour backup battery.
Why are medical alert systems important?
Medical alert systems are vital to helping many older adults maintain their independence. As we age, the added peace of mind and protection a medical alert system can offer are quite appealing. Plus, they may help you age in place safely for years to come. However, alert systems can be costly, depending on the brand, payment plan, ...
What is a PERS medical alert system?
Under Medicaid, medical alert systems are known as PERS (personal emergency response services), and they may be covered under programs such as Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). In some states, such as New York,3 Medicaid covers PERS only as part of an approved home care plan. Other states may have different rules.
What is AARP discount?
AARP or other senior discounts: The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a massive special interest group focused on the needs of older adults. Many companies, including some medical alert system providers, offer discounts to AARP members.
What is Medicare Part C?
Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, is private insurance that provides the same essential benefits as Original Medicare, along with some extras.2 Because private insurance companies offer Medicare Advantage plans, what is included (beyond Original Medicare) varies by plan and provider. Contact your Medicare Advantage company ...
Is medical alert covered by Medicare Advantage?
Instead, it adds benefits to your Medicare coverage. Like Medicare Advantage, whether a medical alert system is covered depends solely on your plan and provider.
Do veterans get discounts on medical alerts?
VA discounts: If you're a veteran, you may qualify for a discount on a medical alert system. Some companies discount the equipment, some give a price break on the monthly service, and some offer discounts on both. It's always worth asking if a veteran's discount is available.
How to save on medical alert?
Here are some other ways you can save on a medical alert plan or system: Avoid long-term contracts. If a situation comes up where you won’t be using the system for awhile, such as a long hospital stay, it would be helpful to be able to cancel the plan without penalty.
What is a medical alert system?
Medical alert systems allow you get help if you’re alone and have an emergency or injury. Typically, a button on the device sends a signal to the alert company to let them know you need assistance. Although these devices can provide peace of mind and help in emergency situations, Medicare doesn’t consider them necessary medical devices.
What is Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B covers durable medical equipment, like walkers, wheelchairs, or crutches. Medical alert systems do not qualify as durable medical equipment and therefore aren’t covered. Medicare Part C or Medicare Advantage is a plan provided by private insurance companies. Some plans offer additional benefits and services ...
How to get financial help with medicaid?
Some ways you can get financial help with a medic alert system include: Checking if Medicaid will cover costs. If you qualify for Medicaid in your state, some programs may help cover some or all of the costs for a medical alert system. Contacting the company for potential discounts.
Is a medical alert system covered by Medicare?
Medical alert systems aren’t listed under Medicare’s covered services or devices. This is likely because medical alert systems are not considered “medically necessary” and do not directly improve a person’s health (like a a blood glucose monitor helps you monitor and treat diabetes).
Can you deduct medical alerts?
Sometimes, you can deduct all or a portion of the expenses related to medical alert systems. Check with a tax preparation professional to see if this applies to your situation. More cost-saving tips. Medical alert systems can be an extra cost when healthcare costs are already expensive.
Do you have to pay for Medicare out of pocket?
However, you only have original Medicare coverage, you will likely need to pay all costs out of your pocket. We’ll look at a few other ways to save on medical alert systems next.
Why are medical alert systems so popular?
Around three-quarters of American adults want to stay in their own homes as they age, but many have concerns about how they would access help in the case of a fall or emergency. This is why medical alert systems are so popular. Also known as Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS), these systems allow seniors to call for assistance when they can’t reach a phone. The best medical alert systems have easy-to-use, wearable technology that connects to a response center or preprogrammed phone numbers, so seniors can reach help when it’s needed.
Is emergency response system a benefit?
Often, systems aren’t clearly outlined as a benefit , so it’s important to check with individual providers. Emergency response systems are eligible medical expenses for people with a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
Does Medicaid cover PERS?
Seniors can check the details of their state’s Medicaid plan to discover if they can obtain a PERS through the program. If Medicaid doesn’t cover a medical alert system, it may still count as a medically necessary cost.
Do seniors have to pay for medical alert?
Although seniors have to pay for the medical alert system in this scenario, the costs may lower their income enough to enroll in Medicaid and access the other services available for the system .
Does the VA have a medical alert system?
The VA has a number of approved providers that offer complimentary medical alert systems to qualifying veterans. These systems tend to have fewer features compared to well-known brands, but can still be a suitable option for seniors.
Can I claim Medicare Part A or Part B?
Part A is designed to cover the cost of major care, such as hospitalizations, while Part B is for short-term treatments, such as doctor’s visits. However, seniors who are enrolled in Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, may be able to claim a PERS through their plan.
What is Medicare Part A?
If you are enrolled in Medicare, you will automatically be enrolled in Part A. Medicare Part A is responsible for paying for hospital expenses. More specifically, Part A generally covers items such as impatient care, nursing home stays, hospice and in-home health care.
How much is Medicare Part B?
The average premium for Medicare Part B is $134, however this could be more or less if you have a high income or if you are on Social Security. Keep in mind that this amount could go up slightly each year as rates are renegotiated.
Does Medicare cover medical alerts?
Private insurance and Medicare Part C may help cover the cost of a medical alert device or assist with defraying the monthly fees for a personal emergency response system. However, whether or not one of these devices is covered will vary by insurance provider. Those interested will need to find out if their insurance or Medicare Part C in their ...
Can seniors get medical alerts?
It is possible that seniors can obtain a medical alert device through their own insurance or through one of the Medicare supplement plans (in this case, Medicare Part C). Medicare Part C, sometimes referred to as Medicare Advantage, is a private health insurance plan for those who are members of Medicare Parts A and B.
Is Medicare Part B optional?
If you have a question about what your Medicare coverage will actually cover, you can enter it on Medicare.gov. Medicare Part B is optional, and you are not automatically enrolled if you participate in Medicare. There is a monthly premium to be enrolled in Medicare Part B. The average premium for Medicare Part B is $134, ...
Do you have to pay for medical alerts?
In some instances, you will have to pay a one-time fee for the rental of the medical alert equipment in addition to a monthly monitoring fee. However, some companies will ship their medical alert devices for free, you will just have to pay for the monitoring services which may or may not require a long-term contract.
Can you use a fall detector on a phone?
This can be life-saving in the case where you are unable to get up or reach the telephone. Some can even have automatic fall detection which can detect when a person falls and automatically call for help. These devices bring great peace of mind and can save lives, but some people are worried about the cost.
Are Any Medical Alert Systems Covered by Medicare?
Medical alert systems help seniors and vulnerable adults age in place by ensuring their safety and wellbeing in the event of an emergency. These personal alarms alert medical personnel in the event of an emergency. Unfortunately, they aren’t cheap.
What Other Options Do I Have Since Medicare Does Not Cover Medical Alert Systems?
Here are some other programs beyond Original Medicare and Medicaid that may offer coverage for medical alert systems:
Bottom Line
Medical alert systems provide a critical service that helps people live independently. “These medical alert systems are crucial for timely intervention,” Dr. Mira said, and they should be considered an investment in an individual’s wellbeing.
What is the difference between life alert and medical alert?
Life Alert typically refers to a specific company, while medical alert is the general term used to describe the devices in general. What sets Life Alert apart from other medical alert companies is that you must sign a 3-year contract for the device, and they tend to offer a more expensive service. 5.
What is a medical alert device?
The medical alert device has the technology to detect when the wearer falls down. This is particularly useful for seniors that are prone to falling and cannot get back up. When the device detects that you’ve fallen over, it will automatically trigger an alert for you.
How does a medical alert system work?
Some medical alert systems monitor your activity and use fall detection to identify whether there’s a medical emergency, while others rely on the user pressing a button. The alarm that’s triggered might instantly call 911 for you, or send a message to a carer or loved one. Each device will work differently.
Why do seniors refuse medical alerts?
Stubborn seniors across the states refuse them because they don’t want to appear weak and frail – or they just think the devices are incredibly ugly! Well, lucky for you we’ve found some very cheap and free medical alert options that you won’t even realize you’re wearing.
What are the categories of medical alert devices?
All medical alert devices can be put into one of three categories: home, mobile, and app.
Can a medical alert system save your life?
Designed for seniors, medical alert systems detect medical emergencies and immediately get help on the phone or on the way. And yes, we know there’s a stigma around medical alert systems.