Alyssa Lane
Medical alert systems are life-saving devices, especially for seniors who are at high risk of falling or managing a chronic illness. These systems can cost upwards of $20 per month, with additional upfront or service fees. While most insurance plans do not cover the cost of medical alert systems, some Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicare Advantage plans may cover a free personal emergency response system (PERS) and regular monitoring. This includes plans from providers such as Humana, UnitedHealthcare, and Anthem.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Insurance coverage for medical alert bracelets | Varies across providers and plans |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | May cover medical alert bracelets under Medicare Advantage plans |
| Other insurance providers | May offer coverage depending on the type of insurance, plan, and carrier |
| Medicaid | Not typically covered, but varies by state |
| Veteran's Affairs (VA) | May provide coverage for veterans or spouses of veterans |
| Long-term care insurance | More likely to cover medical alert bracelets |
| Medicare Part A and Part B | Do not cover medical alert bracelets |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | May cover medical alert bracelets, but varies by plan |
| Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) | Does not cover medical alert bracelets |
| Private insurance plans | Vary in coverage, may include medical alert bracelets as a qualified medical expense |
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What You'll Learn
Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover Life Alert?
Whether Blue Cross Blue Shield covers the cost of Life Alert depends on your policy and the company you buy it from. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover Life Alert or comparable systems. However, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, like those offered by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, may cover personal emergency response systems (PERS) like Life Alert.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are committed to helping members age with confidence. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC) provides free aids to people with disabilities and free language services for those whose primary language is not English. As a Blue Cross NC member, you are eligible to receive a Connect America PERS at no cost. This includes a stylish Connect America Smartwatch with fall detection, a long-lasting battery, and a built-in microphone and speaker.
Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage varies as it includes more than 30 different companies. It's important to consult your policy documents to determine if a free PERS is a covered benefit.
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Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover the cost of a medical alert system?
Medical alert systems are generally not covered by insurance. However, there are some options that might be available, depending on your insurance provider and the type of plan you have.
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) coverage varies because it is made up of more than 30 different companies. Some BCBS Medicare Advantage plans may cover a free personal emergency response system (PERS) and regular monitoring through BCBS providers. However, it is important to note that not all BCBS plans offer benefits like emergency response systems, and they may not be available in all locations.
Some Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Medicare Part C, may cover some or all of the cost of a medical alert system. These plans are offered by private companies and can include additional benefits such as dental, vision, prescription drugs, fitness plans, and medical alert systems. To find out if your plan covers medical alert systems, you should consult your policy documents or contact your insurance provider directly.
There are other ways to save money on medical alert systems, such as sales and holiday specials, using health savings accounts (HSA) or flexible spending accounts (FSA), or through local agencies for aging. Additionally, some companies offer discounted rates, and veterans or members of associations like AARP may qualify for a discount or free medical alert system.
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What are the alternatives to Blue Cross Blue Shield?
Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) is a federation of independent health insurance companies that offer healthcare insurance for individuals, families, and employers. Some alternatives to BCBS are outlined below:
NeueHealth
NeueHealth operates within the medical sector, providing care through its owned and affiliated clinics. It offers arrangements and tools for independent providers.
Zelis
Zelis operates within the healthcare sector and provides a platform for claims management, payment solutions, and network management for health plans and third-party administrators.
Endeavor Health
Endeavor Health is a healthcare system that provides medical services, including emergency care, immediate care, and walk-in services.
UnitedHealthcare
UnitedHealthcare is a health insurance company that offers various health plans and services, including Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, individual and family plans, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance options. The company primarily sells to individuals, families, and employers seeking health insurance.
GEHA
GEHA provides health and dental benefits to federal employees, retirees, and their families. The company offers a range of health plans, including Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) and Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB).
MultiPlan
MultiPlan offers various services such as analytics-based services, data and decision science services, network-based services, payment and revenue integrity services.
Change Healthcare
Change Healthcare provides services related to clinical, administrative, and payment processes for healthcare providers.
Mutual of Omaha - Medicare Advantage
Mutual of Omaha is a full-service, multi-line provider of insurance and financial service products for individuals, families, and businesses. They offer Medicare Advantage plans and focus on providing family-oriented services.
WellCare Health
WellCare Health provides government-sponsored managed care services, primarily through Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Prescription plans.
Humana
Humana is a health insurance company that offers health insurance services to individuals, families, and employers.
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How to save money on medical alert systems?
Whether your health insurance will pay for all or part of a medical alert system depends on the insurance company and the plan you are enrolled in. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover the cost of medical alert systems, as they are not considered durable medical equipment. However, some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans may cover some of the costs. These plans often include benefits that original Medicare does not cover, like medications, hearing aids, and dental care.
- Sales and holiday specials: Many companies offer discounted rates during sales and holiday specials, so keep an eye out for these.
- Flexible spending accounts (FSA): You can use your FSA to help cover the costs of a medical alert system. These accounts allow you to save money before it's taxed and use it exclusively for qualified medical expenses.
- Health savings accounts (HSA): Similar to FSAs, HSAs can help cover the costs of a medical alert system. You can save money before it's taxed and use it for qualified medical expenses. HSA funds do not expire, unlike FSA savings.
- Local agencies: Local government offices, such as area agencies or state departments on aging, may be able to direct you to discounted medical alert systems.
- Membership discounts: If you are a member of a senior-focused organization like AARP, you may be able to get a discount on medical alert systems.
- Bundling and pre-payment: Some companies may offer discounts for bundling products or paying for multiple months of service in advance.
- Compare plans: If you are choosing an insurance plan, compare the services covered by each company. Private plans have different levels of coverage, so it's important to see what your shared cost will be and if they cover medical alert systems.
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What are the benefits of a medical alert bracelet?
Medical alert bracelets are a simple and effective way to communicate vital information to paramedics or EMTs in an emergency. They are especially useful if you are alone, unconscious, confused, incapacitated, or unable to advocate for your health. They can also be useful if you are unable to communicate details of your medical conditions, medications, and allergies.
Medical alert bracelets are also beneficial as they are easily recognisable to EMTs and paramedics, who are trained to look for them. They are also more convenient than "In Case of Emergency" (ICE) bracelets, which only provide basic contact information. Medical alert bracelets can provide more detailed information, such as medical history, allergies, and prescriptions, which can help EMS personnel access your health information quickly and provide appropriate treatment.
Additionally, medical alert bracelets can offer peace of mind, allowing you to live independently while knowing that you are protected in case of an emergency. They come in various styles, colours, and sizes, allowing you to choose one that suits your personal preferences and comfort.
In terms of insurance coverage, it is important to note that most insurance plans do not cover the cost of medical alert systems. However, some private insurance plans, such as Medicare Advantage (Part C), may provide coverage for these devices. It is always a good idea to contact your insurance provider to confirm the specific benefits and coverage of your plan.
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Frequently asked questions
Blue Cross Blue Shield is a shared business name of independent licensees. While Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover the cost of medical alert systems, some Medicare Advantage plans (Medicare Part C) offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield may cover personal emergency response systems.
Medical alert bracelets are wearable devices that provide emergency monitoring services, such as fall detection and immediate connection to assistance in the event of an urgent situation. They can be lifesaving devices for older adults, especially those at a high risk of falling or managing a chronic illness.
Medical alert systems generally have starting monthly costs ranging from $20 to $50, with potential initial set-up costs or extra service fees.
