Medical alert providers offer an invaluable service for seniors. Older people – and those living with certain handicaps – want their independence. Unfortunately, they aren’t always able to get that without some form of assistance. Medical alert services have become hugely popular because they offer seniors a simple way to get help should they require it.
You only need to press an emergency button to alert a provider of the situation. It’s a smart way to give seniors independence and give peace of mind to their families. And fortunately, it’s incredibly easy to find a suitable medical alert provider – if – you know what to look for. So, what should you look for in a medical alert provider?
Range of Products or Services
Having a wide range of services and products available from a medical alert provider can be both positive and negative. However, it remains an important element to consider. On one hand, having a wider range of services may allow you to find one suited to your specific requirements. On the other hand, too much choice can leave you confused over which product to choose.
Generally, a provider with a vast array of products or services is ideal as it shows its strengths or abilities. When searching for a new provider, you want one that’s varied. For example, they offer in-home alert packages and on-the-go plans too. And, there is a complete protection package along with smoke detection. That’s the sort of thing you want to see when looking for a new medical alert provider.
Affordability
There’s an assumption medical alert services cost a fortune but that’s not entirely true. Costs vary considerably from the provider and the package or medical alert plan being chosen. However, if you’re looking for a new provider, it’s essential to consider their affordability. For example, you’re buying a medical alert package for an elderly parent. The provider has a basic in-home package costing $50 per month on a rolling 12-month contract. In the small print, it states prices are subject to change during this period. That mightn’t be as affordable as the month’s progress.
On the other hand, another provider offers a month-to-month contract for an in-home system with automatic fall detection included for $55. There is also a price-lock guarantee; it means prices won’t increase. Even though the second provider costs slightly more than the first, they – technically – are more affordable.
For instance, you pay $50 for the first two months and then prices increase to $65 for the remaining ten months of the contract. If the second provider wanted to increase costs, they’d have to give you prior notice which gives you time to look elsewhere. Affordability isn’t just about monthly costs but what type of service you’re getting for that price.
Versatility
You may want to look at a provider’s versatility, such as:
It’s essential a provider is able to be somewhat versatile or flexible in what they can offer. For instance, you have a fairly large home but their home devices cover a few hundred meters. In this instance, you’d need a package that had several alert devices so they can be installed throughout the home. This would cover the entire home. A provider should be flexible with their alert packages so one can be tailor-made to your specifications. You need to look for a medical alert provider that offers flexibility and versatility.
Trained Call Center Operators
You have a fall or feel unwell and press the emergency button to speak to someone. The last thing you need is to be fobbed off by someone who doesn’t know what they’re talking about. It’s incredibly frustrating and could make matters worse. When you’re looking for a new medical alert provider, it’s essential to ensure they have trained call center operators, preferably with experience in the medical field.
Some providers even have trained doctors or medical personnel that handle the calls. It’s reassuring and that’s what you want, especially if you have an accident. It’s also good peace of mind.
A Reputable Provider
No-one is perfect but when you’re spending money on a medical alert service, you expect it to be as close to perfection as possible. When looking for a provider, it’s essential to look at their reputation. A reputable medical alert provider is more likely to offer a decent service than one with a poor reputation. Of course, every provider will have good feedback and bad feedback, but ideally, you want a reputable service so that you have some reassurance of the quality they’ll provide.
Make the Right Choice
This is a big decision to make whether it’s for yourself or a loved one and you want to get it right. Medical alert systems can become a vital part of the home and might just save your life one day. It’s essential to find a medical alert provider that offers value for money and a good service. Take your time and find a good medical alert provider.