Medical alert systems are devices that assist the user in case of emergencies. You get a wearable with the call button for emergencies, along with a network of buttons and sensors spread throughout the house. Pressing the button will send a signal to the provider company, who will be the first responders on the scene and will simultaneously alert emergency services on your behalf. Let us look at some things that you should know about medical alert systems.

Cost
The price of medical alert systems can start from as low as $20, depending on the company and service you choose. Most of the providers have a monthly or yearly subscription package, which does not require a contract. However, some companies require a multi-year commitment. The cost essentially depends on the services and systems you choose. A landline-based in-home system that starts at $20 can go up to $35 per month. Cellular in-home systems are more expensive as compared to the landlines. Prices for this start at $35, which can go up to $45 per month. The mobile alert systems are the costliest. Their prices range between $65 and $75 every month.

Some of these medical alert systems provide service to a spouse without any extra charge. For others, you will have to pay an additional sum every month to monitor a dependent. Select a system that is most suitable for you after thorough research, and make sure to look for discounts and offers for a quarterly or yearly plan.

Coverage
Opting for a medical alert system is not an easy option for many since it entails multiple costs. Insurance companies, Medicaid, and Medicare, are some policies that include the coverage of medical alert systems in their package. Medicaid covers ‘Personal Emergency Response Services’ and similar related functions that include alert systems. Medicare recently started providing medical alert systems as a part of a few of their plans. This is covered under Medicare C in the case of private insurers.

The plans offered by private insurance companies vary, and only a few of them cover medical alert systems. Some of these providers need one to qualify under certain conditions and a doctor’s recommendation to include the alert system in the plan. Long-term insurance policies often cover it in their package.

Benefits
Medical alert systems offer major advantages. These include some of the points given below.

• Monitoring of specially-abled children and adults
  Patients suffering from physical or mental illnesses often require round-the-clock monitoring. Caretakers might find it difficult to be present all the time, especially if they have other jobs or duties. The medical alert system provides that blanket of protection for such patients. If they are living on their own, the 24/7 access to medical assistance and quick response from the provider can help avert any difficult situation. The GPS monitoring service the system offers is quite helpful in finding patients that tend to wander off on their own.
• Ideal for different conditions and severity
  Medical alert systems have developed a lot over the years. You can now choose one according to the kind of assistance you require, which also matches your lifestyle. They can be set up throughout the house, or worn as waterproof bracelets and pendants.
• Outpatient monitoring
  Patients who need care and assistance after they have completed their treatment in a facility should opt for a medical alert system. This way they can get on with their life but also get immediate help if needed.

Providers
The number of companies and providers for medical alert systems has increased greatly over the years. Some of the most popular providers include Bay Alarm Medical, GreatCall, Life Alert, LifeStation, and Medical Alert.