How the VA Provides Free Medical Alert Systems
For veterans who meet certain medical criteria, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can fund personal emergency response systems (PERS), commonly known as medical alert systems. These devices can be life-saving for those at risk of falls, medical episodes, or other emergencies where immediate help is needed. The VA does not provide these devices directly but instead partners with private-sector companies to provide the service. The process is handled through the VA's Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service.
VA Partnerships with Providers
The VA currently partners with specific medical alert companies to offer systems at no cost to qualifying veterans. Two of the main providers mentioned in VA-related resources are MedEquip Alert and Latitude USA. Each system offers different features, allowing a veteran and their VA healthcare team to choose the best option for their specific needs. It is crucial to work directly with a VA healthcare provider to determine eligibility and which system is most appropriate.
Eligibility Requirements
Receiving a free medical alert system through the VA is not an automatic benefit. Eligibility depends on a medical assessment and a recommendation from a VA provider. A veteran must have a medically-certified need for the device, typically due to risks associated with conditions that increase the likelihood of falls or other medical emergencies. This certification must come from a VA physician, social worker, or occupational therapist, who then submits a consult request to the Prosthetics department.
VA-Covered Medical Alert Systems
Understanding the options available is the first step toward getting the right protection. The VA provides systems with distinct functionalities to meet different needs.
MedEquip Alert
MedEquip Alert is a mobile medical alert system that offers 24/7 access to emergency operators. When the veteran presses the SOS button, they are connected to a monitoring center that can either contact a loved one or dispatch emergency services. This system relies on cellular service and includes enhanced GPS for location tracking. It is also water-resistant for use in the shower or bath, a common location for falls.
Latitude Mobile Alert
The Latitude Mobile Alert system is another VA-funded option, featuring mobile emergency service with automatic fall detection. Instead of a monitoring center, this device sends text messages and places calls to a list of pre-selected personal emergency contacts, which can include 911. If a fall is detected, the device automatically initiates this process. It also features two-way voice communication once a contact answers. The system uses 4G LTE and Wi-Fi for location positioning.
How to Request Your VA-Funded Medical Alert System
Securing a medical alert system through the VA involves a straightforward, step-by-step process. Following these instructions will help streamline the application.
- Talk to Your VA Provider: During your next VA appointment, discuss your health concerns and ask for a VA-funded medical alert device. Your physician, social worker, or occupational therapist is the key to starting this process.
- Provider Submits Request: Your provider will submit the necessary consult request to the Prosthetic and Sensory Aids Service, including the medical justification for the device. They may need specific GSA numbers for ordering, such as the one for MedEquip Alert.
- Department Approval: The VA's prosthetics department will review the request and approve the order based on medical necessity.
- Delivery: Once approved, the order is sent to the medical alert company. The device is often shipped within 24–48 hours.
Other Avenues for Veterans to Obtain a Medical Alert
If the primary VA-funded options do not meet a veteran’s needs, or if they are not eligible for the direct VA program, other options can provide free or low-cost access to a medical alert system.
Explore the VA Prosthetics Service Further
If a different system is preferred, a VA doctor can submit a request with medical justification to the Prosthetics department for a device outside of the main partner programs. This is an important route to explore for unique medical requirements.
Check Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Veterans with Medicare and Tricare for Life can also explore coverage through their Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan. Many Part C plans offer coverage for medical alert devices as a supplemental benefit, which is not typically covered by Original Medicare (Parts A and B).
Investigate State Medicaid Programs
Some state Medicaid programs and waiver programs may cover the cost of medical alert systems for eligible seniors, including veterans. These waivers can offer valuable financial support for long-term care needs.
Veteran Discounts from Private Companies
Many private medical alert companies offer special discounts for veterans as a sign of appreciation. Even if a system isn't free, these discounts can make the service more affordable. It's often necessary to call and inquire about these special veteran rates, as they may not be advertised on the company's website.
Comparison of VA-Covered Options
To help veterans and their families decide, this table compares the key features of the two primary VA-partnered medical alert systems.
| Feature | MedEquip Alert | Latitude Mobile Alert |
|---|---|---|
| Monitoring | 24/7 professional monitoring center access. | No professional monitoring; contacts personal list (up to 6). |
| Fall Detection | Optional feature. | Automatic fall detection is standard. |
| Emergency Contact | Emergency operator who can contact loved ones or dispatch emergency services. | Calls and texts pre-programmed personal contacts and 911. |
| Location Tracking | Enhanced GPS. | 4G LTE and Wi-Fi positioning. |
| Technology | AT&T LTE cellular service. | 4G LTE cellular service. |
| Usage | Mobile, water-resistant. | Mobile, water-resistant. |
Staying Independent with Confidence
Access to a reliable medical alert system is a critical component of maintaining independence and safety for many aging veterans. While the process requires working with a VA provider, the benefit of a free system with no monthly fees is a significant advantage. The different options available through VA partnerships and other programs ensure that a veteran can find a solution tailored to their individual needs. For those needing additional information on home safety, the Department of Veterans Affairs offers extensive resources. Taking the first step by speaking with a VA healthcare provider can unlock access to this life-saving technology and provide peace of mind for both veterans and their families.
