A medical alarm system is a wireless electronic device created to enable anyone to call for personal help in case of necessity.

Usually medical alarm system consists of three parts: a small radio transmitter (a personal help button worn by the user); a telephone-connected console and an emergency response center that monitors calls.

In case the emergency help is necessary, the personal help button is pushed and the signal is transmitted to the console. The console calls to security center where the call is identified. All database information about the user (name, address, medical conditions, etc.) immediately appears on the computer screen of your emergency operator.

The operator will try to define the cause of the emergency. He/she may also check your medical history and the list of people to be notified. If the Security Center cannot reach you, it will alert your local emergency services (paramedics) to go to your home. Also Security Center emergency dispatcher will keep talking to you and will continuously watch the situation until the problem is solved.

There are some monitoring services that provide the client with a USB medical alert device. USB medical alert device allows the emergency personnel to have immediate access to important medical information.
The kind of medical alarm described above is rather active, but there is also a passive type of medical alarm. The user has a similar help button and he has to push it in certain time several times a day. The signal that comes to the monitoring station means that everything is fine. If the signal is not being sent for a specific time period (usually 12 hours), the monitoring center appoints someone to visit the user’s residence and check if everything is alright.

Companies that offer medical alarm systems can serve not only for emergency use. Sometimes they are also used to help with shopping or cleaning.