Get Your Medical Alert System for FREE if You Qualify. Just Pay For Monthly Service.
Quick Links:
- Finding a Reduced-Price or Free Medical Alert System
- Importance of Low-Cost and Free Medical Alert Systems for Seniors
- What to Look for in a Medical Alert System
- How Medical Care Alert Can Help You Save Money on a Medical Alert System
- Find the Medical Care Alert System That's Right for You
- Resources and Assistance Agencies in Every State
Free Medical Alert System With Monthly Service
Medical alert systems are vital for accessing emergency support fast in the event of a fall or accident. Many seniors go without a medical alert system due to cost, but free and reduced-price options offer a more affordable way to enhance your safety.
Understanding what to look for in a medical alert system and how to find free and low-cost options is the first step to increasing your peace of mind.
Finding a Reduced-Price or Free Medical Alert System
The following solutions offer reduced-cost or free medical alert systems for seniors:
Medical Alert System Subscription With Free Equipment
When you sign up for a medical alert system service, you can receive the equipment at no charge. Medical Care Alert offers free medical alert equipment for seniors with an affordable monthly fee. The subscription covers a dedicated monitoring center that keeps your information on file and responds rapidly in the event of an emergency.
LifeLine Free Phone Program
LifeLine is a federal government program that offers a discount to eliminate or lower monthly phone bills. If you fall within a low-income bracket and receive support from one of the following government assistance programs, you may be eligible to reduce your landline or wireless phone bill:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Supplemental Social Security
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
If you qualify for a free or reduced phone bill, this reduces the total cost of using a medical alert system when connected to your home landline phone.
Free Medical Alert Systems for Veterans
If you are a veteran, you may be eligible for a free basic medical alert system, known as a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS). A Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) physician can prescribe a free medical alert device, but it's better to opt for a higher-quality system.
The VA can also provide a free phone dialer that serves as a medical alert system, but this device is not monitored by a dedicated monitoring center like a medical alert system is. You can program a VA-provided phone dialer with three to four phone numbers that the phone dials in the event of an emergency, but it does not connect you to a dedicated emergency response team.
While VA-covered systems come with no up-front or monthly costs, a higher-quality system offers more features. Consider your budget and desired features, such as GPS tracking and fall detection technology, before choosing a medical alert system. Many high-quality medical alert systems offer veterans discounts if you notify them of your veteran status when you sign up.
Medical Care Alert offers a Veteran's Discount on all Personal Emergency Response Systems.
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)
PACE is a program that aims to help older adults remain at home. This program can help seniors cover all or part of the cost of a medical alert system if it is necessary for aging in place. If you are eligible for nursing home care and live in a state that offers the PACE program, you may be eligible to receive services from this organization and use it to access a free or lower-cost medical alert system.
Do Insurance Companies Cover Medical Alert Systems?
Original Medicare, Medigap and private insurance companies do not typically cover medical alert systems because they don't consider them medically necessary. However, a specific, specialized plan might cover the cost or part of the cost.
Specialized Plans
Consider how the following types of insurance may help you pay for a medical alert system:
- Long-term care insurance: If you have long-term care insurance to cover extended care services, your policy may cover part or all of a medical alert system. Some policies consider this type of system an important tool for aging in place.
- Medicare Advantage: In some cases, individuals can access lower-cost or free medical alert systems through Medicare Advantage (Part C). This option provides supplemental benefits that may cover a PERS. However many Medicare Advantage programs are removing this benefit.
- Medicaid: Depending on state and program specifications, some individuals can access lower-cost or free medical alert systems through Medicaid. Some Medicaid programs can offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers to help seniors and individuals with disabilities stay at home instead of moving to a long-term care facility. These waivers can help cover the cost of a medical alert system if it is considered necessary.
- Health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA): You can use funds from an HSA or FSA to cover the cost of a medical alert system.
In some instances, you can receive reimbursement for your medical alert system from your insurance company, HSA or FSA. If your insurance company does agree to pay for a system, they may ask for a primary care doctor's note or prescription stating the need for it.
Michigan Auto No-Fault Insurance Personal Emergency Alert System
Michigan's no-fault auto insurance will cover the cost of a PERS if an auto accident causes you to need the system.
Case Managers will add to a care plan for victims of a car accident due to a traumatic brain injury (TBI), mobility issues, living alone or a higher risk of falling.
To access this coverage, ask your Case Manager. You must have an active Auto No-Fault Insurance policy at the time of the accident and obtain a prescription or authorization from your primary care physician (PCP) stating that a PERS is medically necessary. When you process a claim, you will need to provide your insurance information, such as the case manager, policy number and claim number. Your case manager can then send this information to the medical alert system provider and directly bill your insurance provider.
Medical Care Alert's Relationships With Insurance Providers
Medical Care Alert can bill your insurance company directly with their prior authorization and a primary care provider or doctor's prescription. We can also work with you to gather the necessary documentation for reimbursement. Medical Care Alert offers direct relationships with several insurance providers, such as:
- HAP CareSource (MI)
- Commonwealth Care Alliance (MA)
- Crystal Run Health Care (NY)
- Buckeye (OH)
- Upper Peninsula Health Plan UPHP (MI)
- Humana
- Aetna
- Molina
- Meridian
- Centene
- Call to see if your plan covers Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS)
Importance of Low-Cost and Free Medical Alert Systems for Seniors
Seniors need access to affordable medical alert systems because they offer the following advantages:
Rapid Emergency Response
A medical alert system allows you or a family member to call for help quickly and easily. Wearable devices ensure that help is only a button press away, which is vital as falls become more common. A cell phone may be out of reach in emergency situations, so it's important to have a device you can easily access if you need help.
Safer Independent Living
With a medical alert system, you or your loved one can live at home longer. This technology makes it safer to age in place, avoiding long-term care facilities if desired. You can also opt for GPS-enabled medical alert devices if you want more independence when you engage in hobbies, events or errands outside your home.
Greater Peace of Mind
A medical alert system offers greater peace of mind for the user and their family. With a medical alert system, you can continue your favorite activities and hobbies knowing that help is easily accessible should you fall or experience an emergency.
What to Look for in a Medical Alert System
Looking for a high-quality system at an affordable price is better than seeking the lowest-cost medical alert system. Many medical alert systems offer advanced features at a budget-friendly monthly rate. Look for the following factors when choosing a medical alert system to ensure it offers reliable support:
A Dedicated Emergency Response Center
A dedicated emergency response monitoring center provides immediate, personalized support in the event of an emergency. Unlike 911, a monitoring center's agents keep your name, location and unique medical needs on file. This enables them to dispatch help rapidly, even if you are unable to speak directly to them. Medical Care Alert's systems connect you to a US-based monitoring center operated by EMT/EMD-Certified agents.
Some PERS companies allow their dispatchers to work remotely from home. When comparing PERS providers, ask if their dispatchers work from home or in a secure supervised monitoring center. Ask them to confirm in writing that all dispatchers work in a monitoring center and not remotely from home. If they won't put it in writing, look elsewhere.
Family Notifications
Dedicated monitoring center agents also notify your designated family, friends or neighbors via phone calls and text messages, ensuring they are aware of your situation. When you sign up for service, you select which individuals you want to include as emergency contacts, and the monitoring center keeps this information on file. Ask the PERS provider if there is an additional charge to send text or email dispatch notifications to the contact list.
Optional Fall Detection
Some medical alert systems allow you to sign up for optional fall detection technology for an additional monthly fee. This additional service provides you with a wearable device that can detect sudden movements or drops and alert an emergency response center.
If a fall occurs, agents can talk directly to you and dispatch help if you are injured or unresponsive. This feature is especially beneficial if you or a loved one has a high fall risk, as it makes it easier to call for help if you are unable to reach your phone or press your medical alert system's button.
Key Lockbox
Look for a system with a free key lockbox. This feature enables emergency response personnel to enter your home quickly without damaging your door. Some medical alert systems charge an additional fee for this, but Medical Care Alert offers it at no extra cost.
GPS Tracking
A medical alert system with GPS tracking lets emergency responders and your emergency contacts know exactly where you are in an emergency. This feature makes it easier for you to access help when you are unable to communicate your location.
How Medical Care Alert Can Help You Save Money on a Medical Alert System
Medical Care Alert helps you save money on a high-quality medical alert system with the following benefits and offerings:
- Free equipment: You receive free medical alert system equipment when you sign up for a monthly subscription. Your subscription connects your medical alert system to a dedicated emergency response center.
- Free shipping: We offer free shipping on annual payment plan subscriptions.
- A free lockbox: A Medical Care Alert subscription comes with a free lockbox to hide your key for emergency responders.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees: Medical Care Alert does not charge extra set up, activation or cancellation fees.
- Annual and semiannual plans: You can reduce your monthly payment by opting for an annual plan instead of a semiannual one.
- No Long Term Contracts: cancel anytime without penalty.
Find the Medical Care Alert System That's Right for You
Medical Care Alert offers the following systems at an affordable monthly price:
HOME
The HOME Medical Alert System covers your entire home and comes with shower-safe help buttons. This system has a 1,000-foot range, and you can use it with a landline or cellular connection. The HOME system comes with optional fall detection and is the best option if you spend most of your time in your house.
HOME & AWAY FLEX
The HOME & AWAY FLEX GPS Medical Alert System is a cellular medical alert system with optional fall detection. This system features a shower-safe GPS pendant that you can use while you're at home or out and about.
SmartWatch
The Senior SmartWatch With GPS features a water-resistant help button that you can press when you need emergency assistance. This system also comes with a pedometer and heart rate monitor so you can keep an eye on your health. Similar to the HOME and HOME & AWAY FLEX systems, you can opt for fall detection. The SmartWatch works without WiFi or a cellphone.
Resources and Assistance Agencies in Every State
Explore the available programs, services and medical alert systems in your state to learn more about how you can enhance safety at an affordable cost:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
- Medi-Cal Qualifications
- California Medical Alert Systems for Seniors
- California In-Home Supportive Services
- Medical Care Alert California
Colorado
Connecticut
- Connecticut Personal Care Assistance
- Senior Resources Area Agency on Aging
- Medical Care Alert Connecticut
Delaware
Florida
- Medical Care Alert for Florida Seniors
- Nursing Home Abuse Center
- Florida Statewide Managed Long Term Care
- Medical Care Alert Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
- The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services
- Illinois Home Services Program
- Medical Care Alert Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
- Maine's Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities Waiver
- MaineCare Consumer Directed Attendant Services
- Medical Care Alert Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
- The Frail Elder Waiver
- Massachusetts Personal Care Attendant Program
- Medical Care Alert Massachusetts
Michigan
- Michigan Auto No-Fault Insurance
- MI Choice Medicaid Waivers (Tell your case manager you want a PERS system from Medical Care Alert by American Response Technologies)
- MI Coordinated Health (MICH)
- Michigan Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) (Medical Care Alert participates with Thome PACE and Huron Valley PACE.)
- Veterans Resource Network of Southeast Michigan
- Michigan Veterans Trust Fund (MVTF)
- Medical Care Alert Michigan
Minnesota
- Minnesota's Medicaid waiver programs
- Minnesota Area Agency on Aging
- Minnesota Home and Community Based Services
- Minnesota Personal Care Assistance Program
- Medical Care Alert Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
- The Aged and Disabled Waiver
- Missouri Consumer Directed State Plan
- Missouri Independent Living Waiver
- Medical Care Alert Missouri
Montana
- Montana Medicaid Waiver
- Montana HCBS Waiver
- Montana Self-Directed Personal Assistance Services
- Medical Care Alert Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
- New Jersey Area Agencies On Aging
- New Jersey Personal Preference Program
- Medical Care Alert New Jersey
New Mexico
- New Mexico Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
- New Mexico Centennial Care Community Benefit
- Medical Care Alert New Mexico
New York
- New York Managed Long-Term Care (MLTC) program
- New York Consumer Directed Personal Assistance
- Medical Care Alert New York
North Carolina
- Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults (CAP/DA)
- North Carolina CAP-DA Waiver
- Medical Care Alert North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
- Ohio PASSPORT Waiver
- Ohio MyCare Plan
- Ohio Medical Alert Reviews
- Ohio Area Agency on Aging (AAA) PASSPORT waivers (Tell your case manager you want a PERS system from Medical Care Alert)
- Next Generation MyCare Ohio
- Medical Care Alert Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
- Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) Waiver
- Pennsylvania Services My Way
- Medical Care Alert Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
South Dakota
Tennessee
Texas
- STAR+PLUS Medicaid Waiver program
- TX Medicaid Waiver Program
- Texas Consumer Directed Services
- Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) Older Adult Services Program
- Harris County's Area Agency on Aging
- Medical Care Alert Texas
Utah
- Salt Lake County Area Agency on Aging (ask for a PERS system from Medical Care Alert)
- Mountainland Area Agency On Aging (ask for a PERS system from Medical Care Alert)
- Medical Care Alert Utah
Vermont
- Vermont's Choices for Care (CFC) Medicaid long-term care program
- Vermont Attendant Services Program
- Vermont Choices For Care (CFC)
- Medical Care Alert Vermont
Virginia
Washington
- Community Living Connections
- Washington COPES
- Washington Medicaid Personal Care (MPC) Program
- Medical Care Alert Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
- Wyoming Home Services Program
- Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)
- Medical Care Alert Wyoming
Sign up for an Affordable Medical Alert System From Medical Care Alert
Medical Care Alert is dedicated to providing seniors with a reliable way to access emergency help. For an affordable monthly fee, we provide free medical alert equipment and access to a 24/7 monitoring center. We also offer additional features, such as fall detection, GPS tracking and a free key lockbox. Browse our medical alert systems or call 855-272-1010 to learn more about how we can help you navigate prices, insurance and available options.
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Read what our customers say
Saved My Life
System with GPS
Patti R.
My experience thus far has been excellent. We accidentally omitted information on the customer agreement, and Customer Service followed up to get everything in order. I appreciate the concern shown to make sure my mother-in-law is treated properly should emergency treatment be needed. We are very relieved that she has this device.
Saved My Life
System with GPS
Blanche K.
My Mom was in her 90s and lived alone. I purchased Medical Care Alert and have since not only had piece of mind but the service has been repeating by my Mom. Excellent response and the two way communication has been invaluable when she had a fall and was not injured but needed help getting up. Can't say enough positives.
Saved My Life
System with GPS
Elizabeth F.
I am 87 years old and very healthy and independent. However, my beloved family and friends have been after me for several years to order one of these life saving devices. I have to admit, the unit does give me peace of mind. You have a marvelous product that will certainly be of service to many senior people. Thank you again for your kindness.