Who does the medical alert contact if there is an emergency?
A trained operator will assess the emergency situation with you after receiving the alert and will call the paramedics to respond. If you are unable to answer them, they will follow emergency protocol and send the police to assess the situation.
Do medical alerts work in rural areas?
Yes. Most basic medical alert systems only need a home phone and power. If you want to get the more upgraded packages that use data and cellular services, you will have to check which network they use and if that network covers your area. For example, MobileHelpl works on the AT&T mobile network.
Can I wear a medical alert in the shower or bath?
Yes, medical alert buttons and wearables are made to be waterproof because of the risks associated with bathtubs and showers. Medical alert system companies know how important it is to be able to take your button or wearable anywhere and they make sure you can.
Will the medical alert work from anywhere in the house?
It depends on the layout of your house and the range with the package you choose, but if for some reason you are out of range, the call center will receive the call and contact your preferred first responder.
How often should I test my medical alert?
Most medical alert system companies recommend that you test your system once a month by pressing the call button and staying on the line to let them know it is just a test.
What happens if I accidentally push the medical alert button?
Accidents happen and the medical alert call centers know that. If you accidentally press the call button, a trained operator will come on the line at the system’s base and you can let them know it was an accident.
Can I request that the medical alert contact a relative instead of an emergency responder?
Yes. Most medical alert companies allow you to customize the first responders that you want to be contacted in case of an emergency. You can list friends, family, caregivers or anybody else you trust as emergency contacts to be alerted. While the call center will be contacted when you press the button, the trained operators will then be able to alert your family if you so desire. They will respect your wishes unless the situation seems too dangerous (for example, you show signs of stroke in your speech), then they will always go with the choice that will be the safest for your health.
How do I install a medical alert at home?
Most medical alert units and packages only require you to plug it in and make sure it is connected to the phone line. It is a simple process and all units come with instructions to guide you.
What is the battery life for a medical alert?
The standard battery life for medical alert systems is around 30 hours after a power outage with an immediate recharge when the power returns. Some companies like LifeFone offers a longer battery life with lithium power of up to five days for their mobile pendant.
Can I bring my medical alert with me if I move?
Yes, you can take your system anywhere you move within the United States. Just make sure you contact the customer care center and let them know your situation. It is also a good idea to check to make sure you are within any networks your medical alert company uses.
Can more than one person use a single medical alert?
Many systems allow for a second person in the household to be covered for free or a small fee. You would need to add them to the account and purchase a second button and/or pendant for them. Check with your medical alert company before buying.
Are medical alerts covered by Medicare?
Unfortunately, standard Medicare does not cover the cost of medical alert systems. Most companies will provide a basic package that only requires paying a small monthly fee to make it affordable for those without extra insurance or Medicare Advantage programs.
Will a medical alert interfere with my pacemaker?
The base systems and buttons that are connected to a landline will not affect pacemakers. Any buttons that communicate with that us a mobile service should be at least six inches from the pacemaker or any other medical device using magnetics. Most medical alert companies will provide a belt clip or pouch that should work to keep the button and magnetic medical device the required distance apart.
Do I need a cell phone to use a medical alert?
No, a cell phone is not needed. All medical alert companies have options that connect to a landline and power outlet with GPS that uses their own cellular networks.
How long are medical alert contracts?
Most of the medical alert companies on our site do not require contracts. Once you notify them of the cancellation and send your equipment back, they will stop any billing. Usually, there is no cancellation fee but you should double-check with your company of choice before canceling. Also, be aware that some companies do require commitments for certain packages.
Can I travel with a medical alert?
If you have a mobile package, you are covered by your medical alert anywhere you go within the network they use. If you only have a landline or wifi base it may be a little more difficult to maintain communication, call the company to see what options they have and also to let them know the dates you will be out of town.
Does someone come to install the medical alert system?
Most systems are so easy to install that they do not offer installation services. However, MobileHelp and all the other medical alert companies on our site offer installation support in some way such as instructions, installation videos, and technical support.
Will my medical alert work if the power goes out?
Yes, as long as your equipment is charged, it should last at least 30 hours without power. Some companies have equipment that lasts longer.
How loud is the medical alert?
All medical alert equipment comes with sensitive microphones and speakers to allow for varying hearing levels. As a lot of customers experience hearing problems, they make sure a clear and high volume sound is available. Most of the units allow for several different levels of sound so you can customize it to your hearing ability.
How will paramedics enter my home?
When your trained operator answers your emergency alert, they will assess the situation. If you’re able to communicate, let them know if you are not able to get to the door and it is locked. If you cannot get to the door, the paramedics will call for help from the police or fire department to get as clean an entry as possible. Some medical alerts also come with free lockboxes so that emergency personnel can easily enter your home without breaking down the door.
Are medical alert services available in languages other than English?
All of the companies on this site offer bilingual operators and for any languages that can’t be spoken by an operator, they have a third-party translation service ready to go.
How does automatic fall detection work?
Fall detection detects falls by monitoring sudden movements. If there is no detection of movement after the first detection, the system will be alerted and an operator will check-in. Regular movements will not cause the alert to go off because a certain pattern has to be detected. It is not foolproof and will not catch every fall, so if you can press the button you still should. But if you have fallen and cannot reach a button or wearable, the fall protection will make sure the alert goes through. Be aware that there is usually an extra charge but it is usually small. Medical Alert, for example, only charges an extra $10 a month.
What happens if something is wrong with the equipment?
Most medical alert companies take great pride in their equipment and offer a lifetime guarantee for normal wear and tear or problems not caused by you. They will repair any faulty equipment or replace batteries as soon as you let the customer service or tech support know there is a problem. For an added cost, there is usually extra protection available for any damage that might happen above normal wear and tear.
What happens if I can’t hear or speak?
If the responding operator does not hear anything from you when the call has gone out, they will contact the paramedics and have them dispatched immediately to your house. They will then get a hold of your emergency contacts.
How much does a medical alert system cost?
Medical alert systems on this site range between $19 and $45 per month for the subscription. The price varies based on the subscription package and whether you are paying monthly, quarterly, or annually. The base unit and call button are usually free with extra upgrades like automatic fall detection and extra equipment like additional wearables and buttons.
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Does Medicare cover any of the cost?
Does the alert system detect if the patient is unconscious or unresponsive and not able to push a button?
You mentioned that there is a lockbox, I assume the key to the house is inside. How does the responder know the code to open the lockbox? Would my mother tell them at the time of need or do you keep it on file?
I would like to have a bracelet button instead of my current button and lanyard. How is that accomplished?
We suggest contacting your current provider to sort this matter, as they probably offer different devices.
we get alot of junk phone calls so dont always answer the phone can you give me a list of numbers that would call if there was a problem
At Top5 Medical Alert Systems we only recommend services, but for brand-specific questions such as this, we recommend you contact your service provider.
my father don’t speak English, only in Spanish so how he get help in case of a accident
does VA provide this service
We tried a medical alert system for my mother, who lives in the northern part of New Hampshire and has a metal roof. This is now a MAJOR concern for us because it inferred with the ability of the device to work. Are there any companies who have equipment that it will not interfere with.
This seems to be a particular issue. First, let us suggest you call the current provider and try to sort the matter. In case they offer no help, try checking with other providers prior to switching to a different one.
Do have a flashlight on it because I’m deaf wheelchair user and I have deaf caregivers work with me daily
Most systems include visual alerts as well as auditory. Make sure your preferred device does include visual aid before your purchase.