Medical alert systems are a straightforward way of ensuring the safety of loved ones during illness, old age, disability, or even pregnancy.
These systems have come a long way in the last decade, with medical alert companies now providing landline or cellular services with or without professional monitoring.
Monitored vs. Non-Monitored Medical Alerts
Choosing between a monitored or non-monitored system is the first and most important decision regarding medical alerts, as it will determine the type of assistance the subscriber will receive during an emergency.
Before deciding, caretakers should consider the advantages and disadvantages of each system, with an emphasis on the particular needs and health limitations of the family member or patient who will use it.
Each company’s medical equipment should also be appropriate for the user. For instance, those prone to have seizures or falling may benefit from an automatic fall detection feature and those who may get lost would benefit from a device with GPS locator capabilities.
MONITORED MEDICAL ALERTS
Most medical alert systems come with a base unit that includes a two-way intercom and a wearable device, usually a pendant or wristband, which allows the user to call for medical assistance with the push of a button.
Newer mobile systems no longer require a base unit, allowing the wearer greater freedom and mobility through a device that functions via cellular coverage and comes with an integrated microphone and speakers.
When the alert button is pressed, or the device senses a fall—for those that feature fall detection technology—it will automatically dial for help.
The main difference between monitored and non-monitored systems is what happens after the alert button is pressed. With a monitored medical alert system, of which there are numerous industry certified options, the device will notify the company’s monitoring center, from where a live representative will then reach out to the client to assess the situation and call the designated emergency contacts or medical services.
Monitored medical alert systems may be better suited for users that require a greater level of care due to a debilitating medical condition or advanced age. Although these systems are more expensive than non-monitored ones, they offer comprehensive services such as keeping the user’s medical information on file for easy access during an emergency.
NON-MONITORED MEDICAL ALERTS
Non-monitored medical alert systems work in much the same way but, instead of communicating with a monitoring center, they will either dial 911 directly or call the user’s emergency contacts, depending on the system.
That means the non-monitored device will have to be programmed with a list of numbers the device will attempt to reach in the event of an emergency.
In this case, when the button is pressed some systems play a recorded message letting the user know that help is on the way, while others allow them to speak to their emergency contacts or a 911 operator.
Non-monitored systems often waive contracts and monthly fees, just requiring customers to purchase the equipment and test it themselves.
Non-monitored systems are cheaper than their alternative. That said, they require proper installation by the user or a family member. These systems may not be suitable for people with advanced medical conditions or who may require personalized assistance during an emergency.
SIMILARITIES & DIFFERENCES
There are many things to look at when choosing whether to go with a monitored or a nonmonitored medical alert system including:
- Monitoring Center Features
- Benefits of Each
- Cost and Fees
MONITORING CENTER FEATURES
Though both options offer prompt assistance in the event of an emergency, a monitored system may provide additional security and peace of mind for those who need a greater level of care and personalized support.
If this is the case, compare providers and choose a company that offers 24/7 monitoring, a response time in seconds, and employs duly certified emergency medical dispatchers.
Other factors to consider are the number of monitoring centers available—to counteract any downtime or offline incidents—their location, and the certifications they hold. If the centers are outsourced or employ non-native English speakers, the user and representative may have difficulty communicating.
MONITORING VS. NONMONITORING BENEFITS
Some companies will provide GPS-enabled devices and keep their customers’ medical information and other important details on file, helping emergency medical personnel reach the client's location better prepared and in less time.
Monitored systems do, however, require a monthly monitoring fee that can range from $25 to $50 - with companies such as Mobile Help, Bay Alarm Medical, and Medical Guardian offering industry-leading value.
If caretakers, relatives, or friends are available to receive calls at any time and it’s possible for the user to speak with a 911 operator without any difficulty, a non-monitored system could be a suitable and inexpensive option.
Nevertheless, non-monitored systems must be programmed with a set of emergency numbers, following the enclosed instructions. These systems also need to be connected to a telephone plug, which could be inconvenient if the subscriber’s home has no such connectors.
Monitored systems, on the other hand, provide a broad range of communication options, including mobile devices that function over a cellular network and come with integrated fall detection sensors.
COSTS & FEES
The costs of medical alert systems vary, depending on the system itself and any additional features the customer selects. As previously mentioned, monitored systems include a monthly fee which can reach up to $50 a month for mobile devices that offer coverage inside and outside the home.
In addition to these, the customer may have to cover the cost of the equipment and applicable activation fees. Although non-monitored systems don’t require monthly fees, the cost of the equipment itself can range from $150 to $300. That may save the subscriber a lot of money in the long run, but they would sacrifice the benefit of having around-the-clock professional assistance available.
When choosing between medical alert systems, consider other factors such as ease of setup and features. Look for simple-to-use devices that customers can install themselves. If possible, opt for a company that provides excellent customer service, even if the system is non-monitored. Ensure the medical alert company has received positive customer reviews and that do not require customers to enter into long-term contracts.
COST-EFFECTIVE OPTIONS
Subscribers’ budgets and needs should be strongly considered when comparing products. The price for the medical alert equipment should be reasonable and correspond to the quality of the system and monitoring service.
Check if the user’s health insurance company covers or reimburses medical alert system expenses. Although Medicare Part A and Part B typically do not cover medical alert systems, Medicare Advantage plans may do so, especially if the user has an existing health issue that predisposes him or her to a fall.
Long-term insurance plans may provide medical alert system coverage, as they usually include the cost of durable medical equipment. Be sure to also check for medical alert provider discounts—such as for AARP, AMAC, and USAA members—and flexible payment options and schedules.
Finally, a medical alert system may be tax deductible. Even though the IRS does not specifically allow for these services to be tax deductible, it does authorize deductions for special medical equipment installation or cost of home improvements for medical purposes.
The IRS also grants a medical expense deduction on the amount “paid to a plan that keeps medical information in a computer data bank and retrieves and furnishes the information upon request to an attending physician.” As previously mentioned, some monitored medical alert providers store subscribers’ medical information for future use by emergency personnel.
Please keep in mind that to receive these tax breaks, the overall unreimbursed medical expenses must exceed 7.5% of the taxpayer’s adjusted gross income, and the deductions must be itemized. Therefore, we recommend that consumers consult a certified accountant to maximize their applicable tax breaks.
Above all else, a good medical alert system should provide comfort and peace of mind for both subscribers and their families, regardless of the type of system they choose.