Med Alert Bracelet - What is a med alert bracelet system?

A med alert bracelet system is easily installed and works with your phone line to provide assistance in case of an emergency. This should not be confused with a medical  ID bracelet, which is simply an identifier used to notify emergency responders to information such as medical condition or allergies.

The bracelet or necklace contain a button which when pressed will summon medical or emergency help. This can provide peace of mind for people who live alone or are separated from a loved one for long periods in a day.

How Does A Med Alert Bracelet Work?

The system is usually made up of two main parts. The first is the base station and is the heart of the system. The base unit will plug into a standard electrical outlet and a standard phone jack. The second component is a waterproof button that is worn as a bracelet or wristband.

In the event of an emergency, the wearer presses the button and the base unit will dial out to the responders. The responder will then in turn dispatch the response team. This would be an ambulance, the fire department or police.

The med alert bracelet systems will have an intercom system built in with powerful microphone and speakers. This will allow you to talk with the responder from most if not all of your home. If for any reason you are out of range, the system should automatically send emergency help.

If you have a very large residence, some systems allow for additional conference intercoms to place on opposite ends of the home. This will provide better coverage for your med alert bracelet system.

Important Note: Make sure that in the event of a power outage the system has a built-in battery allowing it to continue to operate for at least  24 hours. The monitoring center should be notified if your power is lost or battery power is low.

Here are a few things to look for in any system you are considering

Automatically calls the monitoring center every month or so to ensure everything is working properly

Uses a toll-free number to call so you never pay long-distance charges for the service.

Has a good warranty that includes immediate replacement of your med alert bracelet.

Notifies the command center when batteries need replacement.

The ability for you to select your choice of emergency responders including friends and relatives.

 Typical Med Alert Bracelet Base Unit

The next consideration is the cost of the system as well as the monthly monitoring service.

There are usually 2 ways you can start your service.

Paid Equipment - This will be where you pay up front for the equipment. This will generally run you between $150-$250 and then you pay the monthly service fee of $15-$35. The advantage to these plans is the lower monthly service cost.

Lease or Rental Plans - This plan allows you to start with no up front equipment costs. The  monthly service fees will run around $20- $50 so the equipment costs are built into the monthly service fee.

 There are two other things to consider when deciding on which one is for you.

1. Are there testimonials from people who have used these systems?

2. Is there a contract or are you only obligated from month to month.

Follow these easy guidelines and you can have peace of mind with your new med alert bracelet system.