Does Medicare Cover Wearable Alert Devices
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Medical alert systems are a key factor in allowing many seniors the opportunity to live an independent lifestyle. At the touch of a button, these wearable devices alert a call center in the event of a health emergency, fall, or illness.
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Often, medical alert systems can cost upwards of $100 and even require a monthly subscription to remain active. Currently, there are no medical alert systems covered by Original Medicare. However, other options, such as a Medicare Advantage plan might pay for some medical alert system costs.
How Much Does A Medical Alert System Cost With Medicare
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Some Medicare Advantage plans provide free or discounted medical alert systems, but no insurers cover Life Alert because it’s one of the most expensive brands.
If your Medicare Advantage plan covers a medical alert system, expect to pay between $0 and $276 for the first year. That’s much cheaper than Life Alert, which costs $695 for the first year, including the $95 initial cost and the $50 per month cost for the cheapest plan.
We recommend AARP/UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage plans as having the best coverage for medical alert systems. With these plans, enrollees with qualified plans could get a Philips Lifeline system for free.
Who Needs A Medical Alert System
Most seniors will benefit from a medical alert system. From traditional in-home landline alert systems to the most modern mobile + GPS roaming alerts, theres a medical alert system for everyone. A medical alert button helps seniors stay safe whether they spend most of their time at home, or if theyre out and about staying active.
Getting great value for money is important, and so the cost of a medical alert system is a key consideration when purchasing one.
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Medical Alert Systems Comparison
Table 1 below allows you to easily compare prices and features of the top medical alert systems of 2022. When making a comparison of medical alert systems, pay special attention to connection type, device range, and battery life.
Not all medical alerts systems have the same connection typesome only connect to landlines, while others use Wi-Fi or cellular connections . Be aware that you dont need to be an AT& T or Verizon customer to use the medical alert systems on this listyou just need to live within range of their networks. Both companies networks cover a vast majority of the U.S., so you shouldnt have a problem, but if you want to double check, use the Verizon Coverage Map and AT& T Coverage Map tools to verify that youre covered.
All at-home systems have a device range. At-home systems come with a base unit that syncs to wall buttons or wearable devices, like a necklace or wristband. If youre outside of the base units range, pressing the button on your wearable device will not trigger an alert.
If youre interested in an on-the-go system, which works outside of your home, lengthy battery life will be important. On-the-go devices typically have no device range, so youre free to travel with your medical alert device, as long as the connection and battery life are strong enough.
Which Insurance Covers Medical Alert Systems
Medical alert systems are not generally covered by insurance. However, there are insurance plans which do cover it, and sometimes the coverage may vary by state. Here’s a partial breakdown:
- Private Long Term Care Insurance
- Medicare Parts A & B
- Medicare Part C
- Medigap / Medicare Supplemental Insurance (does not cover medical alert systems
- Veteran Affairs
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What Is Life Alert
Life Alert is a medical alert system that consists of a wearable help button linked wirelessly to a device in your home that connects to an emergency response call center. If you suffer a fall or any other type of medical emergency, you can simply hit the button.
This can be life-saving in a situation where you aren’t physically able to reach your phone to call 911. The call center will dispatch a medical team to your home. You can also use the device if you feel you’re in danger for any other reason, such as an intruder in your home.While Life Alert might be the most recognizable brand of medical alert system thanks to its ubiquitous marketing efforts, it is far from the only option. Many competing brands offer the same capabilities and more. Before choosing a device, it is a good idea to compare features and determine which model your Medicare plan covers.
Can A Medical Alert Smartwatch Call 911
Yes, some medical alert smartwatches can call 911. Medical alert watches are designed to contact emergency services or a call center in the event of a fall or other medical crisis. Many medical alert watches only contact a 24/7 monitoring center, which connects users with a dispatcher or operator. Once connected, the operator helps you decide on the type of emergency service needed. If you have a medical alert watch without monitoring services , it will contact 911 in the event of an emergency.
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Does Medicaid Cover Medical Alert Systems
The states administer Medicaid, so the state you live in determines exactly what is covered. Under Medicaid, medical alert systems are known as PERS , and they may be covered under programs such as Home and Community-Based Services . 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.
Quick Tip: Visit our guide to Medicare and Medicaid to learn more about what these two programs cover and how to qualify.
You can find your state’s profile on the Home and Community-Based Services page for more information. The best way to determine whether Medicaid will cover a medical alert system in your state is to call your local Medicaid office and ask about HCBS availability.
Additional Coverage Options For Medical Alert Systems
If you are a Medicare beneficiary with concerns about coverage for the costs for a medical alert system, you might have other options.
Discount programs like AARP, Veterans Benefits, or even a long-term-care policy may cover the costs of your medical alert system. Each plan sets their own benefits, so if you already have other forms of coverage in addition to Original Medicare, speak with your provider about medical alert system benefits.
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The Home And Community Based Services Program
People can get full coverage for medical alert systems under the authority of the Federally approved waiver plans through the Home and Community Based Services programs offered by Medicaid. Potential waiver plans that can be applied against the cost of a medical alert system include:
- Community Access for Disability Inclusion
- Developmental Disabilities Waiver
Coverage for one of the waivers mentioned above is defined under the Specialized Equipment and Supplies Service.
You may also want to check with your state, as some have Alternative Care programs or Essential Community Support Services which cover the cost of Personal Emergency Response Systems.
Which Parts Of Medicare Cover Medical Alert Systems
Medicare is a federal government health insurance that covers medically necessary services and supplies. Generally referred to as original Medicare, it includes Part A and Part B .
Because individuals do not need a medical alert system to diagnose or treat an injury or health condition, original Medicare generally does not cover them.
However, Medicare Advantage plans may cover the device.
Private insurance companies administer these plans as an alternative to original Medicare, and they generally provide some benefits beyond original Medicare. A person can use this tool to find a Medicare Advantage plan in their area.
If someone receives Medicaid, they can check if the program could help with coverage or costs for a medical alert system For example, Medicaids Home and Community Based Services program may help people who receive long-term care services in their own home rather than in a facility.
This assistance could extend to a medical alert system device.
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What Should I Look Out For When Buying Medical Alert Devices
The basics are the same whichever company you choose. Press the button on your senior alert necklace or on the medical alert system, and you will be on the line with a professional in under a minute. The similarities tend to end there. One good example is monitoring. Some companies simply have a 24/7 call center who can dispatch emergency services or call loved ones in the case of an emergency. Others have powerful automatic monitoring of fire/smoke or carbon monoxide.
Intruder alerts or the ability to speak to and get help from board certified doctors are niche features you might be interested in too. If you have a large home, check that the range suits your needs. This can vary from 400 feet to 1500 feet, with unlimited range across the United States for mobile solutions. This is especially helpful if you want to choose a med alert which allows you to pick up regular phone calls from the medical alert necklace or wristband itself.
While historically many medical alert devices relied on a landline to get up and running, this is no longer a necessity. Both cellular at home options, as well as completely wireless mobile med alert devices are now popular.
Do You Need A Medical Alert System
If you dont qualify for reimbursement from your insurance company, you might be wondering whether you truly need a medical alert system. Medical alert systems provide around-the-clock monitoring for active seniors, which gives you the freedom to age at home even when caretakers are unavailable. When you need assistance, press the button and request emergency care. Many systems are equipped with automatic fall detection, so you still receive help if you are unconscious or unable to press the call button.
Medical alert systems help prevent the complications that stem from unexpected falls. Every second counts when youre in pain, whether youre suffering a heart attack or struggling to move a dislocated hip. Plus, more modern devices like medical alert smartwatches offer additional benefits beyond emergency monitoring including voice-to-text messaging, step tracking, a sleek and lightweight design, and more. Purchasing one of these medical alert systems can help ensure that you get the help you need if an emergency arises and offer some everyday benefits that can help you stay healthy and connected.
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Who Should Use A Medical Alert System
The short answer: All adults 65 and older could benefit from a medical alert system. The best time to invest in a medical alert system is before a medical emergency occurs.
If you are a healthy, active older adult who enjoys being on the go, you likely dont have the same needs as someone who is homebound or living with multiple chronic diseases and/or a disability. This is why companies generally dont offer a one-size-fits-all product. A smartwatch, such as the Apple Watch, or cell phone might fit your lifestyle best and offer some extra health and entertainment features. Or maybe you would prefer a simple, inexpensive system for just in case situations.
Many older adults do have chronic diseases and/or physical or sensory disabilities that make a medical alert system a necessity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 85% of adults 65 and older in the U.S. live with one chronic disease, and 56% live with two or more.4
A medical alert system with fall detection is a good match for anyone living with a condition putting them at high risk for falls, like Parkinsons disease, epilepsy, diabetes, COPD, and impaired vision or hearing, according to Dr. Sinvani. For those with a known heart condition, some medical alert devices are specifically designed for people with pacemakers or defibrillators.
Contact Medical Alert Providers
Ask providers directly about potential discounts or programs the company may have in place for low-income individuals.
For example, your provider may be able to waive additional fees for things like activation or installation costs.
Also, speaking of extra fees: When purchasing a medical alert system, be aware that they often come with added costs that may not be obvious. This is where you have to look at the fine print. A few fees to look out for in particular include:
- Activation fees
- Long-term contract fees that may change at a moments notice
- Cancellation fees
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Are Medical Alert Systems Covered By Medicare
Medical alert systems are not covered by Medicare Part A or Part B, but Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, may cover some of the cost. Each plan varies, so confirm coverage with your provider.
To better understand the different parts of Medicare, Christopher Norman, a geriatric nurse practitioner in New York state, recommends talking with an eldercare attorney, a representative of your countys agency on aging, or social workers that specialize in older adult care, all of whom can can be great resources, he said.
For more information on Medicare plan options, check out NCOAs Age Well Planner.
Does Aarp Recommend A Medical Alert System
The AARP recommends the use of various medical alert systems, though it does not endorse specific companies. The group leaves seniors to decide which device they want to use based on their own individual needs. And for AARP members, there are often discounts given on these systems.
Is there a cheaper alternative to Life Alert?
Bay Alarm Medical is one of the more affordable medical alert providers on the market. With their in-home systems starting as low as $19.95 per month, you could add on fall detection and still save significantly when compared to a Life Alert system.
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Are Other Medical Alert Systems The Same As Life Alert
Most medical alert systems have the same basic capabilities, but some have features that others lack. Before purchasing a medical alert system or choosing a Medicare Advantage plan specifically because it pays for one it is a good idea to compare its features to other models and make sure it does what you need it to.Because the Phillips Lifeline product is covered by UnitedHealthcare, it might be useful to compare it side by side with the Life Alert system. The table below lists the features and benefits available on both products.
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Does Medicaid Cover Pers Devices
Medicaid is a complicated web of supporting programs. Some will pay for medical alert devices or monthly fees. In fact, there are four programs in place that are funded by Medicaid that will pay for a PERS device. If you qualify for Medicaid, youll likely be eligible for one of these programs. However, each program operates a little differently state by state, so be sure to get information first.
1. Consumer Directed Services: In these situations, Medicaid covers funding for the elderly and allows them to use the stipend for whatever they like, as long as the expenses related to health. Funding from this program can be used for PERS devices as well as additional services, like monitoring, fall-detection, and medication management. Check the National Conference of State Legislature site for more detailed information on your states policy.
3. Medicaid State Plan Personal Care Attendant Programs: Attendant programs cover the costs of caregiving. If youre caring for your loved one in any way, Medicare may reimburse some of the costs. Much like the HCBS programs, they vary from state to state and pay around the same. Learn more about Personal Care attendant programs in your state by .
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Who Needs A Fall Detection Sensor
Fall detection sensors are meant for peopleusually seniorswho suffer from illness, fatigue, or certain illnesses which make them prone to falls. In some cases, such a device can even mean the difference between life and death, especially for seniors who live alone and would otherwise have no way to call for help in the event of a fall.
What Is The Cheapest Medical Alert System
The least expensive medical alert systems are MobileHelp, Lively, and Medical Alert, with starting monthly fees of $20. Starting costs for other companies range from $25$33 per month. Other costs to consider are equipment and activation fees, and whether you want to pay the extra monthly cost for a medical alert system with fall detection.
Have questions about this article? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
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Do Unmonitored Medical Alert Systems Work
Yes, unmonitored medical alert systems work, but they provide limited protection. Most work by connecting with 911 or predesignated contacts in the case of an emergency. They use either a landline or connect through a cellular plan. Many of these systems are bare-bones and lack important features like fall detection and a caregivers app. The most important thing to remember is they do not include 24/7 monitoring coverage. This does mean they are more affordable and dont require a monthly fee.
Have questions about this review? Email us at reviewsteam@ncoa.org.
What Does Medicare Cover
Medicare Part A covers inpatient care in hospitals or nursing facilities, hospice care and limited home health care. Medicare Part B covers medically necessary services, such as doctor visits, tests, screenings, emergency medical treatment and some durable medical supplies, but not medical alert systems.
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