Notes

Are Medical Alert Devices Covered by Medicare?
Medical alert systems include pendants or bracelets that have a button you can press to get help. They work over cellular networks and require a monthly monitoring fee. Discounts are available through AARP and veterans benefits. You may also be able to use health savings accounts or flexible spending arrangements to cover the cost.
Medicare

Medicare, the federal program that pays for health care for senior citizens over 65 and those who have permanent kidney failure, does not cover medical alert systems. However, some private insurance plans do. Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C, which is offered by private insurers, may cover personal emergency response systems if they are prescribed by a doctor and listed on the medical equipment or supplies coverage list. Medicare supplement insurance, also called Medigap, may also cover medical alert systems.

A medical alert system is a piece of wearable technology that is connected to a monitoring center or family members and allows an individual to press a button in the event of a fall, stroke, or other life-threatening event. These devices are available as pendants, bracelets, and mobile systems that can be used at home or while on the go. They connect to cellular networks and are monitored 24/7 by trained staff. personal alarms for seniors When the button is pressed, staff can contact 911, call a friend or family member, and provide directions to the individual to get help.

Some seniors may be able to reduce the cost of a medical alert device by utilizing discounts. Many companies offer a free trial period that can be utilized to ensure the device works properly. Other companies allow individuals to pay month-to-month or three months at a time rather than a full year upfront, further reducing initial costs. In addition, some medical alert device companies provide discounts for members of organizations like AARP and AMAC.

Those who live alone or who have limited incomes may be able to receive financial assistance from Medicaid, a government-funded insurance program administered by individual states. The programs vary by state but generally offer waivers that can pay for a medical alert system if it is deemed necessary.


Those who qualify for a waiver can rent or purchase a personal emergency response system and receive reimbursement from their Medicare Advantage or long-term care policy. Individuals who have health savings or flexible spending accounts can also use pre-tax money to pay for their device and monthly fees. Comparison shopping is another way to save on the cost of a medical alert device without sacrificing quality or functionality. Look for less-popular companies that offer similar products to avoid inflated set-up, equipment, and contract fees. Some companies also offer one-time installation and activation fees to eliminate recurring monthly charges. Many companies waive these fees for military veterans and those with limited financial means. Many providers offer return plans for unsatisfactory devices.

Medicaid

A medical alert system consists of a pendant or bracelet with a button the wearer can press to summon help. It’s typically connected to a telephone line or wireless network that alerts the company that provides the device if it’s pressed. It then calls the emergency response center, which may dispatch first responders to the location of the device. These devices can be expensive, but they can also save lives in an emergency. Many seniors are looking for ways to afford these lifesaving devices. They may be able to get coverage through Medicare Advantage, long-term care insurance or private health insurance. They can also look for discounts and sales on these systems, use flexible spending accounts or health savings accounts to pay for them, and ask their Area Agencies on Aging about programs that can provide assistance.

Medical alert systems can be expensive, but they are often worth the investment to keep seniors safe and secure in their homes. Some systems have features that can prevent falls, detect smoke or carbon monoxide and monitor daily movements. In addition to a help button, some can also send medication reminders and track vital signs.

Original Medicare, Parts A and B, does not cover medical alert systems because they are not considered “durable medical equipment.” These devices also don’t meet the definition of being needed to treat a specific illness or injury. However, Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) do include these devices in their coverage under the category of home health benefits.

The cost of a medical alert system can vary widely, depending on the type and features of the device. Most have a one-time fee for the device, plus monthly monitoring fees. Some companies offer bundled packages and discounts for veterans, new customers and other groups. Older adults can also check out sales and holiday specials to find deals on these systems. They can also consider purchasing a yearly plan instead of a monthly plan to save money.

Some individuals with limited incomes can qualify for Medicaid, the federal program that covers some medical expenses for low-income individuals. In some states, Medicaid will reimburse for the cost of medical alert systems. Others can qualify for a Medicaid Medically Necessary Pathway, which reduces their income and eligibility requirements by subtracting the cost of certain medical expenses from their monthly income. This can help lower the cost of these systems so that more people can afford them. Many states have these programs, so check with your local agency to see what’s available. Also, be sure to check with private insurance providers about discounts on these systems. Many of these discounts are offered through supplemental insurance policies known as Medigap, which are sold by private insurers.


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