Paul Sanchez
Medical alert systems are devices that can bring peace of mind to older adults, ensuring that help is just a button-press away in case of a medical emergency. While these systems are extremely useful, they can also be quite expensive, with monthly fees ranging from $20 to $60, in addition to equipment, connection, or extra feature fees. Some Medicare Part C or Medicare Advantage plans may partially or entirely cover medical alert system costs, and insurance companies like Aetna, a major provider of Medicare Advantage insurance plans, may be able to help cover the costs of these systems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Does Aetna Insurance provide medical alert buttons? | No, telephone alert systems are considered safety items, which are contractually excluded under most benefit plans. |
| Are there any alternatives? | Yes, LifeStation offers three product levels for Aetna members: Sidekick Home, Sidekick, and Sidekick Smart. |
| What is the price range for LifeStation products? | $19.95 - $42.95 per month |
| Are there any other alternatives? | Yes, Life Alert is another option, but it is quite expensive and requires a 3-year contract. |
| What is the price range for Life Alert products? | $49.95 - $98.85 per month |
| Is there any way to get Aetna to cover the cost of a medical alert system? | It is possible to have a doctor write a note supporting that a personal alert system is beneficial, which can be used to make a direct appeal to the insurance company. |
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What You'll Learn
- Medical alert buttons are not covered by Aetna's Medicare contract
- Life Alert is an out-of-pocket expense for Aetna customers
- Sidekick Smart is a custom-designed smartwatch with fall detection
- Medical alert systems are considered lifesaving devices
- Some Medicare Part C plans cover medical alert system costs
Medical alert buttons are not covered by Aetna's Medicare contract
Medical alert systems are life-saving devices for seniors, especially those at a high risk of falling or managing a chronic illness. While some insurance plans may cover medical alert systems, it depends on the type of insurance, plan, and carrier. Unfortunately, Aetna Medicare plans do not typically cover the cost of Life Alert systems or other medical alert systems, deeming them safety items.
Aetna considers telephone alert systems, or emergency medical alert button systems, to be safety items that are contractually excluded under most benefit plans. This means that these systems are not covered because they are usually used in the absence of illness or injury and are not considered to fall within the contractual definition of DME.
However, it is important to note that Aetna plans vary, and it is always a good idea to confirm with the company directly to see if a medical alert system is covered by your specific plan. Additionally, if you are a veteran, you may be eligible to receive a free medical alert system through your VA medical provider or the VA's partnership with companies like LiveLife Personal Mobile Alarms and MedEquip Alert.
While Aetna does not typically cover the cost of medical alert systems, they do offer discounted rates on products and services for their members. For example, LifeStation offers three product levels for Aetna members, with prices starting at $19.95 per month for an in-home medical alert pendant and going up to $42.95 per month for a smartwatch with fall detection and health monitoring features.
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Life Alert is an out-of-pocket expense for Aetna customers
Life Alert is a well-known brand of medical alert systems, which are life-saving devices for seniors, especially those at high risk of falling or managing a chronic illness. While some insurance plans may cover medical alert systems, it depends on the type of insurance, plan, and carrier. Unfortunately, like most health insurance companies, Aetna does not usually cover the cost of Life Alert systems as they are deemed to be safety items. This means that Life Alert is an out-of-pocket expense for most Aetna customers.
However, it is worth noting that Aetna plan specifics vary, so it is advisable to confirm with the company whether Life Alert is covered by your specific plan. Additionally, a doctor's note supporting the need for a personal alert system may be used to make a direct appeal to the insurance company in some cases. While paying for Life Alert out of pocket can be expensive, Aetna members are eligible for discounted rates on products and services from the company.
For those seeking alternative options, there are other companies that offer medical alert systems with basic features, such as LiveLife Personal Mobile Alarms and MedEquip Alert, which are provided for free to eligible veterans. These devices have wearable pendants with help buttons that can be pressed in case of an emergency. More advanced features, such as a caregiver tracking app, wall-mounted call buttons, spouse coverage, or medication reminders, may require choosing a different company and paying out of pocket.
Aetna members specifically can also consider LifeStation, which offers three product levels with pricing starting at $19.95, $29.95, and $42.95 per month, respectively. These options include features such as in-home medical alert pendants, fall detection, and smartwatch capabilities. Ultimately, while Life Alert may be an out-of-pocket expense for most Aetna customers, there are alternative options and discounts available to help make medical alert systems more accessible.
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Sidekick Smart is a custom-designed smartwatch with fall detection
While it is not clear if ATNA insurance provides medical alert buttons, there are other options for medical alert systems available, such as the Sidekick Smart smartwatch.
The Sidekick Smart also has additional features such as a step counter, heart rate monitor, and weather forecasts. The watch is water-resistant and can be worn during everyday activities, although it should not be submerged in water. It has a bright, intuitive display with easy-to-read fonts and simple navigation. In an emergency, the user can press and hold the button for five seconds to call for help.
Sidekick Smart is available for starting at $42.95 per month, with the option to add extra help buttons for other individuals in the household. The contract is month-to-month, and users can cancel at any time. Overall, it is a budget-friendly choice for those seeking peace of mind and the convenience of a medical alert system on their wrist.
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Medical alert systems are considered lifesaving devices
In-home medical alert devices are ideal for older adults who need monitoring primarily around their homes. These devices can be connected to a landline or cellular network, ensuring coverage both inside and outside the house. This way, users can stay connected to support whether they are climbing stairs, gardening, or even taking a shower. In-home systems may also include wearable devices with buttons to press in case of an emergency, which can be set up as necklaces or wristbands.
On the other hand, mobile medical alert devices offer the advantage of being used outside the home, promoting independence and confidence for older adults who wish to remain active. These devices use GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks to send the user's location to the monitoring center, enabling emergency services to reach them quickly and easily. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals with dementia or cognitive issues, as well as for caregivers who want to ensure their loved ones' safety.
Medical alert systems provide 24/7 monitoring and support, with the option of choosing between monitored and unmonitored systems. Monitored systems connect users to a response center when the emergency button is pressed, while unmonitored systems do not route calls through an emergency call center and may lack features like fall detection. Additionally, some systems offer smartphone apps that allow caregivers to stay connected, send reminders, and access the user's location.
When choosing a medical alert system, it is essential to consider the user's needs, budget, and lifestyle. While monthly fees are a common disadvantage, the peace of mind and enhanced safety provided by these systems make them well worth the investment for many older adults and their families.
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Some Medicare Part C plans cover medical alert system costs
Medical alert systems can be costly, and they are generally not covered by insurance. However, if you are an older adult with Aetna insurance, you may have some options for coverage of Life Alert or other medical alert systems.
Firstly, it is important to note that Aetna is a major provider of Medicare Advantage insurance plans, also known as Medicare Part C. While traditional Medicare (Parts A and B) does not typically cover medical alert systems, some Medicare Advantage plans may offer supplemental benefits that include coverage for these devices. Therefore, if you receive your Part A and Part B benefits through a Medicare Advantage plan, you should check with your plan to see if it covers medical alert systems.
Medicare Advantage plans tend to cover various health concerns and may include coverage for medical alert systems, although it will not be full coverage. Under Medicaid, medical alert systems are known as PERS (personal emergency response services) and may be covered under specific programs.
In addition to exploring Medicare Advantage plans, there are other options to help pay for medical alert systems. For example, some private insurance companies that contract with Medicare may offer coverage for medical alert systems or related equipment, so it is worth reviewing your plan's specific coverage details. Additionally, in some instances, a state Medicaid program may offer coverage for medical alert devices if they are deemed medically necessary.
Overall, while Aetna insurance itself may not directly cover medical alert systems, there are various options available through Medicare and Medicaid plans that may provide coverage or help make these systems more affordable for older adults.
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Frequently asked questions
No, Aetna Insurance does not provide medical alert buttons. Telephone alert systems are not covered because they are not considered by Aetna to fall within the contractual definition of DME, as they are normally used in the absence of illness or injury.
Medical alert buttons are devices that connect users to emergency services with the push of a button. They can save lives and help those living alone feel secure and independent.
Most medical alert devices require users to pay a monthly fee ranging from $20 to $60. Basic units and pendants can cost $49.95 per month, while optional features like extra necklaces or wall buttons can cost an additional $3 to $7 per month.
Yes, there are other safety items that can be used as alternatives to medical alert buttons, such as fall detection systems, bed exit monitors, and first aid kits. Additionally, some Medicare Part C or Medicare Advantage plans may partially or fully cover the costs of medical alert systems.
