Medical alert systems are a key factor in allowing many individuals 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.
Are Medical Alert Systems Covered by Medicare?
Original Medicare provides coverage for durable medical equipment (DME) through Medicare Part B. This includes wheelchairs, blood sugar meters, canes, and more. To be considered DME, an item must provide a service to those using it. So, you may assume a medical alert system will make the cut. However, this is not the case.
Although these alert devices can be essential in the health and safety of older adults, no part of Original Medicare will cover the costs of a medical alert system. This is due to the medical necessity of the item. Even though it is a helpful item to have, it serves no medical purpose for the beneficiary beyond caution.
On the other hand, if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your plan may cover medical alert systems. As private insurance companies manage Medicare Advantage plans, plan coverage and availability will vary between locations and carriers. To see if your plan covers medical alert systems, contact your plan carrier.
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. These plans will vary, so if you already have other forms of coverage in addition to Original Medicare, speak with your provider(s) about medical alert system coverage.
Low-Cost Medical Alert Systems
Costs vary when it comes to medical alert systems. The most popular branded devices can cost hundreds of dollars and require monthly subscriptions. However, this is not the case for all medical alert systems. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, you may find the list below helpful.
Bay Alarm Medical
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Bay Alarm Medical is a medical alert system available to seniors for a low monthly cost. For these systems, monthly prices range from about $20-$60, with no activation fees and no long-term contracts. The most affordable service is the in-home package, which includes a base station and a wearable emergency button.
Costing nearly $20 a month for in-home coverage, this is the most cost-effective option. However, if you wish to add additional services, there may be extra fees.
Lifeline GoSafe
The Lifeline GoSafe system is a standard medical alert system that can attach to a lanyard or wristband for ease. Lifeline GoSafe uses the AT&T cellular network to give you proper coverage.
Seniors who travel often may seek a more mobile option just to be safe. GoSafe is both a mobile and a home medical alert system. While GoSafe does not receive Medicare coverage, you can purchase a Lifeline alert system at an affordable rate.
Although it is not the most budget-friendly option, it does provide the most coverage in and out of your home. GoSafe can cost about $50 a month plus an initial fee of $99.95 for the device.
LifeStation
LifeStation Mobile offers GPS monitoring for more active members. This model does not require a base station and the GPS option helps the company’s operators find the location of a person in an emergency.
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Fall detection features send automatic notifications to LifeStation in the event of a fall. This company encourages individuals to set up an action plan with them. This plan is for situations where a person may not be able to speak after pushing their help button.
LifeStation systems are available for a monthly rate of $32.95 for an annual plan.
FAQs
Sources:
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- Lifeline Support. Accessed March 2022.
https://www.lifelinesupport.org/ - Life Station. Accessed March 2022.
https://www.lifestation.com/ - Bay Alarm Medical . Accessed March 2022.
https://www.bayalarmmedical.com/pricing/#!
My mother has Humana Medicare -do they pay for any of these alert devices She doesn’t drive so only needs one at home Thanks
Sherlee, thank you for reaching out! If your mother is on Original Medicare with a Humana supplement, the medical alert device is typically not covered. If she is on a Humana Advantage plan, you will need to contact the carrier directly for coverage information as some Medicare Advantage plans cover these devices.
I have UnitedHealthcare Group Medicare Advantage (HMO). Does Medicare cover any mobile alert system?
Hi Cathy. Each carrier has its own summary of benefits with Medicare Advantage. You would need to reach out to UHC directly to find out if mobile alert systems are covered.
My mom has Medicare and Tri are. Does either cover a life alert system and its fees?
Hi James! Unfortunately, Orignal Medicare nor TRICARE will cover life alert. Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover it. State Medicaid programs may also pay for it.
Hi Lindsay, I have bcbs Medicare advantage ppo. Do Medicare cover the cost of any medical alert system?
Hi Benjamin! Medicare Advantage carriers each have their own summary of benefits. You would need to contact the carrier directly to find out if that specific plan covers medical alert systems.
I need a Fitbit type of watch. I have Summacare Medicare in Ohio. Does Medicare cover the cost?
Hi Maureen! Unfortunately at this time, Medicare does not cover Fitbits. However, that does not mean they won’t cover it in the future if the medical community considers them medically necessary at some point.