Many seniors opt to maintain an independent lifestyle and “age in place” in their own homes rather than live in a senior /retirement facility. However, many seniors still often go to such facilities mainly to be assured of onsite and round the clock medical care.
Thanks to the advances in modern technology, seniors can now remain comfortably in their homes and still be assured of medical protection. Medical alert systems can provide seniors and their families with the peace of mind that, in the event of a fall, accident, or medical emergency, help will be summoned quickly and effectively – even if the senior cannot reach their phone or is unconscious. When activated, these systems will alert a professional monitoring person, who will then take the necessary steps to ensure the senior receives the required assistance.
Many medical alert systems have a "fall detection" feature on their wearable unit, a vital addition as 25% of seniors are likely to suffer a fall. This can pose a significant danger, so having the right equipment and monitoring service is essential. However, the cost of such devices can be high, leading many seniors to seek help from Medicare.
Medicare can help seniors get many kinds of medical and health devices and supplies covered under Medicare Part B if they are considered durable medical equipment (DME). Unfortunately, Medicare does not consider medical alert devices as DME, therefore, does not provide coverage for them. However, Medicare Part C – commonly known as Medicare Advantage – often can provide coverage for these systems.
Medicare Advantage Plans
Medicare Advantage is an attractive opportunity to supplement your regular Medicare coverage. Offered by many reputable insurance companies and regulated by the government, these plans are tailored to your individual needs, depending on where you live and the type of coverage you wish to have. Signing up is easy, and the premium payments are manageable. Take advantage of this great opportunity today!
Medicare Advantage plans offer an attractive add-on benefit in coverage for medical alert systems and fall detection devices. While the government's Medicare regulations do not mandate this perk, the available coverage can vary significantly between insurance companies.
If you're a senior needing a medical alert system, you're in luck! Some plans offer them for free, while others offer a partial discount. Some coverage is only available for seniors with certain health conditions, but don't worry– any amount you pay for the alert system won't count towards your Medicare plan's deductible or out-of-pocket maximum. That's because the benefits of the device are through a discount program rather than medical coverage.
Discover the top Medicare Advantage plans for securing medical alert systems!
AARP/UnitedHealthcare
AARP/UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare Advantage plans offer the best coverage because they provide a free alert system available to most policyholders without restrictions. However, coverage can still vary by individual plan. UnitedHealthcare is the most popular Medicare Advantage provider, issuing 27% of all national policies. Their plans are available everywhere in the country except for Alaska and Louisiana. The AARP-UnitedHealthcare partnership results from a marketing agreement between the two companies. Even when the plan name is AARP, the insurance is through UnitedHealthcare. To get an AARP Medicare Advantage plan, you do not need to be an AARP member to enroll in the insurance coverage.
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) companies are part of the illustrious Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), a remarkable alliance of health insurance businesses providing coverage to members in each U.S. state. With a BCBS insurance card, policyholders can access care almost anywhere in the country, so long as the provider participates and the plan benefits are fulfilled. Furthermore, many of their Medicare Advantage plans offer a free medical alert system, though there may be certain restrictions.
Humana
This nationwide company offers a free medical alert system to those with a diagnosed and documented heart condition and a discounted rate to those with Medicare Advantage plans! Don't miss out on this great opportunity to stay connected and safe.
Kaiser Permanente
Kaiser is renowned for its top-rated Medicare Advantage plans, including the exclusive offer of a discounted medical alert system, starting from just $19 a month! Residents of the West Coast have the advantage of being able to take advantage of Kaiser's outstanding plans.
Aetna
Aetna brings you a range of Medicare Advantage and Supplement policies to give you the peace of mind you deserve. Not only this, but they even offer a discounted medical alert system, starting at just $20 a month! Get the coverage you need to fill in the gaps of original Medicare (Parts A and B) with one of Aetna's three plans - PPO, HMO, or HMO-POS. With some of the best prices on the market and availability in 46 states and Washington, D.C., Aetna has the right plan for you.