If you’re like most people, you probably have a lot of questions about medical alert systems. Maybe you’ve seen the commercials featuring elderly people who’ve fallen and can’t get up, or perhaps a friend or family member has recommended a particular system to you.
Either way, it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. Therefore, here are a few questions you should ask yourself before buying a medical alert system.
33 Questions you should ask about medical alert systems:
- What is a medical alert system?
- How does it work?
- Does it require a landline, cellular connection, or both?
- Who needs a medical alert system?
- What equipment do I need?
- Will the system work during a power outage?
- Can I take the system with me when I travel?
- What’s the range of the base unit?
- How many emergency contacts can I have?
- Will my contacts be notified by text message, email, or phone call?
- Can I test the system before committing to it?
- What happens if I accidentally press my emergency button?
- Who will answer my call if I press my emergency button?
- How long does it take for help to arrive after I press my emergency button?
- Will the police or fire department be automatically notified when I press my button?
- What type of monitoring does your company use (landline, cellular, or both)?
- Do I need to wear a special bracelet or pendant?
- What happens if I press the button by accident?
- What’s the range of the system?
- Will it work even if I leave my house?
- Can more than one person use the same system?
- What type of battery does the system use?
- How often does the battery need to be replaced?
- Can I use the system to track data from GPS? If so, how accurate is it?
- Is your company certified by an independent monitoring organization such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), The Monitoring Association (formerly CSAA), or National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)?
- Is the company accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB)?
- What features does the system offer (two-way voice, fall detection, GPS tracking)?
- How often do you update your software/hardware?
- Do I have to pay for these updates or are they included in my monthly subscription fee?
- Does the system need to be professionally installed, or can I set it up myself?
- What happens if I lose my base station?
- Can I upgrade my system in the future?
- What other products or services do the company offer?
30 Questions you should ask about medical alert systems before you buy one:
- What’s the monthly fee?
- What’s the activation fee?
- Are there any other hidden fees?
- How long is the contract term?
- Can I cancel the contract if I’m not satisfied?
- What happens if I move?
- Can the system be transferred?
- Is your call center staffed 24/7/365?
- Do the call center staff speak English as their primary language?
- Can I cancel my service at any time?
- What are your customer service hours?
- How can I contact customer service?
- What’s your return policy?
- Are your products made in the USA?
- Are there any special offers or discounts currently available?
- Is a long-term contract required?
- Is there a money-back guarantee offered?
- Does the company offer discounts, such as for AARP members or military personnel?
- Are there hidden fees for installing or renting equipment?
- Do you offer free shipping and handling for ordering new equipment or batteries?
- Are there any optional extras that require additional charges?
- Have you received any awards or accolades that show your company is reputable and trustworthy (BBB accreditation, Consumer Reports rating)?
- Is there anywhere I can view these awards online so I can check their validity for myself?
- Do you have any testimonials from satisfied customers that I can read online before deciding on your service?
- Is there a warranty on the equipment? For how long? Are replacement parts available if something breaks?
- Can I cancel my subscription at any time, or am I locked into a contract?
- If so, are there any early cancelation fees I need to be aware of?
- Are there any fees for canceling or returning the device?
- Do you offer free shipping and handling for ordering new equipment or batteries?
- Is the company reputable and reliable?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the alert system?
The purpose of an alert system is to inform the public of emergencies or other incidents that may affect their safety. Alert systems can disseminate information via television, radio, text messages, email, or social media.
They are often used to warn people about severe weather, but can also be used to communicate other information such as criminal activity or hazardous materials accidents. Many communities have alert systems that are specific to their area.
For example, a community may have a text-based alert system that notifies residents of emergencies via text message. Other communities use more traditional methods such as television and radio alerts.
No matter which system is used, the goal is always the same: to inform the public as quickly and effectively as possible about emergencies or other incidents that could affect their safety.
What are the three types of alerts?
There are three types of medical alert systems: wearable, in-home, and telephone.
A wearable medical alert system is a device you wear around your neck or on your wrist. When you need help, you push a button on the device and it sends a signal to a monitoring center. The monitoring center then calls emergency services or your friends or family.
An in-home medical alert system is a device you place in your home. It works the same way as a wearable medical alert system but is installed in your home.
A telephone medical alert system is a system you use to call for help. You press a button on the phone and it sends a signal to a monitoring center. The monitoring center then calls emergency services or your friends or family.
Is a medical alert system worth it?
When deciding if a medical alert system is worth it, there are a few factors to consider.
The first is the price of the system. Medical alert systems can be expensive, but there are many options and many companies offer payment plans.
The second factor is whether or not you think you’ll need the system. If you’ve had a fall or other health problems, a medical alert system may be a good idea.
The third factor is whether or not your family and friends know how to use the system in an emergency. If they don’t know, you may need to provide them with training. Whether or not a medical alert system is worth it depends on your individual situation.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a medical alert system, we hope you’ve found some helpful hints in this guide to help you make your buying decision! System requirements and features vary from device to device. That’s why it’s important to do your research to find out which option is best for your needs.
