EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEMS
There is no denying that plenty of medical emergencies occur around us. For medically challenged individuals who do not have any external help to their disposal, an emergency can turn fatal. For such susceptible humans, a medical alert system is a boon. Conventionally, medical alert systems are adopted by seniors so that help can be received as soon as an emergency occurs. However, like most aspects of technology, understanding the working of a medical system can be quite tricky. If you are also considering using this for your loved ones, then here is a guide for you to understand them. Reviews of medical alert systems can be confusing, but once you understand the fundamentals, you will be able to make a better decision.
What is a medical alert system?
Medical alert systems can be best described as systems that work as a response to personal emergencies. It is an ideal way to keep a tab on the health of an elderly or any patient who is fighting a severe medical issue. By and large, it is adopted by people who live alone with less or negligible external human attention. Immediate help is provided as soon as a medical issue occurs or even during unforeseen eventualities such as a fire or a fall. Typically, these systems consist of a help button. This helps the patient or the system in dialing up an emergency response that connects you to a live agent directly in a situation that could mean the difference between life and death.
How do medical alert systems work?
The working of a medical alert system is pretty straight forward. The concerned patient would be required to wear it as a bracelet or a necklace. In case you need help in an emergency, all you need to do is push the button on the medical alert device. The help button then further sends a signal to the medical alarm base, which is situated in the patient’s house. This device is connected to the trained service operators working for the monitoring service you choose. The operator would then connect with the patient with the help of an amplified two-way speaker in the alarm. This helps the operator get a hang of the situation and then take the right steps towards sending the concerned help. When you look for medical alert system reviews, carefully skim through the quality of the operator’s responses. This will help you make a better-informed decision as to which system to buy.
How much do medical alert systems cost?
While looking for medical alert reviews, one of the first things that seniors look for is the costing of the product. Here is an approximate breakdown of the cost involved in getting a medical alert system:
- Installation cost: This is a one time cost that would typically cost you anywhere between $30 and $100.
- Base accessories and system: The cost of the system and base accessories typically is available for around $50.
- Monthly fees: The monthly base fees are around $20 to $50.
- Monthly added fees and cost of upgrades: Depending on the features you opt for, the added fees can range from $5 to $50.
- Repairs and replacement: The repair and replacement in our experience would cost you about $150, but this is hopefully only a one-time expense that you may or may not need to bear.
- Fees of cancellation: Albeit a needless expense, it would set you back by about $20 to $50.
Do medical alert systems interfere with pacemakers?
In most cases, a medical alert system does not interfere or even interact with an attached pacemaker. A pacemaker is inserted internally and works with a battery. So, both these devices work independently and do not typically hamper each other.
Even so, it is advised that you speak to your medical expert to make a recommendation depending on your unique medical history. A medical alert review would also be able to help shed light on this.
Do medical alert systems work outside the home?
With GPS technology in place, many medical systems work outside the house too. However, the service range may differ for these products. Most medical alert systems would only be able to work at a distance of 200-300 feet away from the base of the setup. Hence, depending on the product you choose, you would need to get a heads up from your medical provider regarding the accessibility of the medical alert system.
Do medical alert systems require a landline?
Since technology has gone ahead, there is no need for integrating a landline for your system to work. Today, many cellular systems work as the base of the medical alert system. So, you do not require a landline for a medical alert system to work. There are other alternatives available for the same.
Does Medicare cover medical alert systems?
Even though it is disappointing, Medicare does not cover a medical alert system. However, you can find alternate ways to get coverage for a medical alert system. For instance, people who hold a Medicare Advantage Plan may be able to get certain costs or discounts covered for their medical alert system with the help of the original insurance plan. You can talk to the insurance provider for details on the same.
Top medical alert systems
Medical Guardian
A reliable medical alert system outfitted with features such as fall detection, two-way clear communication, and long-lasting battery life.
Key Features:
- One-touch alert signal
- Backup battery
- A+ Rating by the BBB
Medical Alert
A comprehensive, hassle-free, and affordable medical alert system provider for seniors who are keen on living independently in their homes.
Key Features:
- Waterproof safe buttons
- 30-day risk-free trial
- No activation or installation charges
Mobile Help
A dependable medical alert system equipped with features such as with GPS tracking, lifetime warranty, and 30-day money-back guarantee.
Key Features:
- Fall detection
- $200 Visa Gift Card for referrals
- No separate cellular or landline plan needed
Are medical alert systems worth it?
Medical alert systems are worth it for seniors and individuals who are suffering from health disorders that can cause emergency situations. It is also particularly helpful for individuals living alone. There are plenty of options on the market that can help you put this great medical system in your budget. Merely narrowing down your options with the correct knowledge of the service can be quite tricky. With so many medical alert services in the market, choosing the right option can be quite a task. However, it is recommended that you go easy on the technical intricacies and select the options that are very simple in terms of the user interface. Additionally, we recommend that you choose all the criteria above to filter out the best medical alert system reviews. Some of the best providers of medical alert systems include Medical Guardian, Mobile Help, Life Station, GetSafe, Qmedic, and GreatCall.
