About Lifeline Philips acquired Lifeline in 2006, changing the name to Philips Lifeline. “Philips” was dropped from its name when Connect America acquired the company in 2021. Many medical alert review sites still use Philips Lifeline and Lifeline interchangeably.

Lifeline Systems (formerly Philips Lifeline) was founded in 1974 by a gerontologist, a specialist who studies older adults. It was acquired in 2021 by Philips by Connect America, a North American healthcare company. Lifeline offers a range of in-home and on-the-go mobile alert systems.

The Fast Facts: Lifeline Equipment and Pricing

Although Medicare does not cover medical alert systems, other options exist to help pay for these devices. Some ways to make these systems more affordable for older adults include: AARP: The Association of Retired Persons (AARP) gives members special discounts on specific medical alert systems.

The Fast Facts: Lifeline Equipment and Pricing

Connect America Looking Ahead. In July of 2021, Connect America, a nationally recognized leading innovator in connected health solutions, acquired Lifeline, with Philips maintaining an equity stake in the company.

Are medical alert systems covered by Medicare? Medical alert systems are not covered by Medicare Part A or Part B, but Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, may cover some of the cost.

Your communicator connects to Lifeline using a wireless network, so no phone line or additional wireless equipment is required.

Monthly costs vary from $50–$90 for Life Alert, and $29.95–$44.95 for Medical Guardian. Both companies offer 24/7 monitoring and both at-home and on-the-go devices.

Medicare Parts A and B, which are administered by the federal government, do not cover Life Alert or any other type of medical alert system. However, Medicare Advantage plans are administered by private insurance companies, and many of these plans provide coverage for wearable alert devices similar to Life Alert.

Connecting Your Lifeline Medical Alert Service Your communicator connects to Lifeline using a wireless network, so no phone line or additional wireless equipment is required.

In July of 2021, Connect America, a nationally recognized leading innovator in connected health solutions, acquired Lifeline, with Philips maintaining an equity stake in the company.