One of the most common questions asked about medical alert systems is “Why have it when calling 911 gets you direct access to emergency personnel?” On the surface, calling the emergency number may seem like a better idea, and in some cases, it may be. However, there are certain advantages that a medical alert system has over calling 911.
- The person in trouble may not be able to get to the phone. Most people do not carry a phone around with them 100 percent of the time. A slip in the bathtub, a stumble in the yard, or a slip down the stairs could mean a person is stranded without any access to a phone. With a medical alert emergency call button, worn on the body at all times, a person can call for help, no matter the situation.
- The person may have trouble communicating what exactly might be wrong. Some situations may render a person unable to speak. That makes it difficult for a 911 operator to understand the situation or an EMT to get pertinent information from the patient. A medical alert system operator will have a list of medications the person takes as well as the person’s medical conditions. This can prove invaluable in an emergency.
- Emergency personnel may not know how to get into the house without breaking down a door. A representative at the medical alert call center can direct the emergency responders on the appropriate entry point, where keys may be found, and any codes needed for the security system. The rep can also relay any special instructions about pets or special conditions within the home.
- An emergency responder or 911 operator will not know who the person’s emergency contacts are. When a person signs up for a medical alert system, he or she provides a list of emergency contacts. These contacts can be neighbors, family members, or friends. It provides phone numbers and addresses.
- Not every situation requires 911 assistance. In many cases, the person in trouble may not be having a medical emergency. That person may need assistance getting up off the floor or getting out of bed for an unusual reason. A medical alert system allows the person to get assistance from neighbors or family and not involve emergency personnel at all.
- Medical alert systems allow seniors to remain independent for longer. While 911 is appropriate for emergency situations, it is not a long-term solution for seniors who need a safety net in place to allow them to stay in their homes as long as possible. A medical alert system can be a part of that safety net.
- A medical alert system gives the senior and his or her kids peace of mind. There comes a moment when a senior realizes that he or she is not as strong and able-bodied as before. The senior is not anywhere ready to go into an assisted living facility or move into a family member’s home. A medical alert system makes this possible.
Pioneer Emergency Medical Alarms offers an assortment of medical alert systems from major providers like First Alert and Honeywell. We install, maintain, and service all the systems that we sell. We are a family owned business serving all 50 of the United States and all 13 provinces in Canada. Give us a call today.