What are monitoring and reminder services?
A broad range of reminder services and other tools help individuals manage their health, take medications on time, and record health information. For instance, emergency response or medical alarm systems enable users to contact 24-hour emergency assistance at the push of a button. Depending on the type of product or service one chooses, potential benefits include: reducing the burden of remembering medication schedules, early detection of side effects or clinical deterioration, immediate and personalized answers to health questions, and emotional support.

What are the different types of monitoring and reminder services?

• • Tools like watches, clocks, pill dispensers, beepers, and cell phones aimed at improving medication management. Some remind you to take your medicine, and others also dispense medication and record the event.
• • Medical alert systems and personal alarm systems where an individual pushes a button on a base unit or pendant opens two-way communication with a representative, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How do I pay for monitoring and reminder services?
Individuals usually pay for these services themselves. You may also wish to check whether your health insurance or long-term care insurance plan covers monitoring and reminder products or services.