Find the Best Medical Alert Systems in Billings, MT

What to look for in a medical alert system in Billings

Medical alert systems help older Billings residents and those with disabilities continue to live independently. Their most basic function is to connect the user to help after a fall or during another emergency. These devices can be worn around the neck, on a belt or on the wrist and activated with the push of a button or even automatically after detecting a fall.

Depending on your lifestyle, you can choose a system that’s designed for the home or for mobile use. Here are important features to consider before making your purchase:

• Monitoring: Monitored medical alert systems connect you to a professional monitoring center, where trained operators, available 24/7, can speak with you and dispatch help if necessary. Unmonitored systems connect the user to a prearranged list of contacts.
• Landline/cellular connectivity: At-home systems either work over an existing landline or through a cellular network, while on-the-go systems are always cellular. If you choose a cellular option, you don’t need to have an existing cell phone plan.
• Wearability: Wearable devices include necklaces, wristbands, watches and belt clips. Some devices work in conjunction with a base station, while others work independently. Chose one that fits your style and feels comfortable.
• Battery life: In-home wearable buttons last from two to five years. Most consoles or base stations include a backup battery that will run for over 24 hours if the power goes out. Mobile wearable devices with tracking technology last for one to three days before they need to be recharged.
• Water resistance: Most Billings companies offer devices that can be worn in the bath or shower, where slippery surfaces can cause falls.
• Fall detection: Some devices can detect when the user has fallen and automatically alert the monitoring center or a contact, without the press of a button. Fall detection technology usually costs a monthly fee.
• Medical alert system with GPS: On-the-go medical alert systems have GPS location technology, so responders know exactly where you are in the event of an emergency.

In addition to evaluating these features, look for a company that has mainly positive reviews from customers and easy device setup and installation. Compare pricing, taking into account any contract term, equipment, shipping, activation or cancellation fees. Find out about product warranties to make sure your equipment is covered. Check for a trial period.

How much does a medical alert system cost in Billings?

Medical alert system prices vary depending on the company, type of system, system features and whether you choose monitored service. If you opt for monitoring, there’s often no equipment charge; instead you pay a monthly fee between $20 and $50. Fall detection is up to $10 extra per month.

Mobile medical alert systems are generally a bit pricier than at-home systems. You also may have to pay extra if you want professional installation, though most medical alert systems are simple to install yourself. Promotions are common among medical alert system companies in Billings, so look for deals that include free shipping or even a month of free service.

Unmonitored medical alert systems have an initial cost to buy the equipment but no monthly charge. These systems cost anywhere from $25 to $250.

Billings medical alert system FAQ

Are there any free medical alert systems?

No, all medical alert systems require some sort of payment, whether it’s a one-time fee for unmonitored equipment or a monthly fee for a monitored service.

How do medical alert systems work?

With a medical alert system, a user has a wearable device with a button they can push to activate a call for help. If the system is monitored, the user is connected to a monitoring center and can speak with an operator, who can send emergency assistance. If the system is unmonitored, the system calls predetermined contacts and/or 911. Some medical alert systems have automatic fall detection, which can call for assistance automatically without the push of a button.

Does a Life Alert system require a landline?

No, a landline is not required for a Life Alert system.

Are medical alert systems tax deductible in Montana?

We recommend speaking to a tax professional to find out if a medical alert system qualifies as a deductible medical expense.