Questions to Ask a Medical Alert Device Representative
November 10, 2024
Questions to Ask a Medical Alert Device Representative
You’ve been researching resources that could provide you and your senior loved one with extra peace of mind while they are living at home. A medical alert system seems like a great option and you’re interested in learning more. Once you’re ready to get offline and speak with a representative, how can you be sure you’re going to ask the right questions that will help you make your best decision? Let us help.
Our Bay Alarm Medical representatives speak with many seniors and family caregivers each day. We know which questions will get you the answers you need in order to choose the right company and the right device for your unique situation. Here are the questions you need to ask when you chat with a representative.
How Does Your System Work?
Chances are, you are already familiar with how a medical alert device and system works, but it is helpful to hear about it from the company’s representative. They will give you a summary of how the system works, but with more details than you’re likely to get online. This more nuanced version will help you ask follow-up questions to learn more.
Who Answers the Call for Assistance?
An operator will answer the call when your loved one presses their medical alert device button for assistance. You want to know who these operators are, including the training they receive. Ask if operators are on call around-the-clock as well as how they determine if the need for a first responder call is warranted.
What If My Loved One Is Confused or Unable to Answer Questions?
If your loved one has fallen or is experiencing a medical crisis, they may be unable to answer direct questions from the operator who answers their call for assistance. Ask how operators are trained to handle these scenarios and what their follow-up steps would be.
Does My Loved One Need a Landline?
Depending on the system you choose, you might need to connect it to your loved one’s landline. If your loved one doesn’t have a landline, this could cause you to take some extra steps prior to installation. Determine if the system you are choosing requires a landline or not.
What Is the Installation Process?
Inquire about the installation process of the medical alert system, including how long the shipping time is and if you need to be there in order to receive the order and install it. Ask about the steps for installation and how long it will take, especially if you are going to be installing it for your loved one.
What Are the Costs?
Don’t be surprised by subscription fees or additional costs. Ask pointed questions about the system’s cost and whether the device you are purchasing has any recurring or monthly costs.
Are There Any Deals Going On Right Now?
A representative from the medical alert system company will know what types of discounts are possible as well as if there are any deals happening when you call. Asking about a deal or discount does not mean you are locking yourself into purchasing the device or system, but it is helpful to know if you can get a discount because your loved one was a Veteran or if there is a free installation promotion running this month.
Which Device Do You Recommend?
Not all older adults are alike, and most medical alert systems are as well. Give a little bit of information about your loved one’s abilities and lifestyle to see if the representative can recommend a few options that would suit them. You might find that the one you picked out online is the best fit, or you might discover a different option based on the representative’s recommendation.
What Is Required for Maintenance and Upkeep?
Asking this question will help to ensure you aren’t surprised by any maintenance or replacement costs in the future. Inquire about how long the battery usually lasts, if there are people who need to replace bands or lanyards (and how often), as well as how to know when it might be time to replace parts. Then, ask what happens if the system or device isn’t working well; is there a warranty option with easy repairs?
Remember: You’re Running the Call
It is quite helpful to speak with a representative to get your questions answered, but it is important to remember that you are not locked into doing business with this representative. If you find that the representative you are speaking with is pushy or too “salesy” for you, remember that you can thank them for their time and get off the call. They may try to offer you extra deals or discounts, but if you don’t like feeling pushed into a quick decision, say so. Let them know that you are simply doing your research and getting to know multiple options so that you can make the best decision possible for your loved one. The extra deals or discounts will not pressure you into rushing through that process.
Finally, remember that you can always reach out again if you have additional questions or want to commit to purchasing.
