Medical Alert Systems
A Guide to Medical Alert’s Pricing and How to Get the Best Deal in 2024
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(855) 909-6735
SeniorLiving.org is supported by commissions from some of the providers listed on our site. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines.
(855) 909-6735
Medical Alert is part of the Connect America brand, one of the country’s largest and best providers of medical alert system providers. We’ve found that the company offers simple solutions and customer-friendly policies, including no hidden fees or long-term contracts.
Medical Alert offers a choice of three systems: two at-home systems and one on-the-go option. In our 2024 Medical Alert review, we found the company’s systems to be user-friendly and reliable overall. Their monitoring centers are TMA Five Diamond certified, the gold standard in monitoring center certifications, and it shows — their response time is among the best. Read on for more information about pricing and how to get the best deal with Medical Alert.
Medical Alert at a Glance
- Fall detection available
- Fast response time
- GPS location tracking
- Two-way communication
- Caregiver mobile app
- 30-day money-back guarantee (minus shipping costs)
- Affordable monthly prices
- No equipment fees
The Fast Facts: Medical Alert’s Equipment and Pricing
| System | Connection type | Monthly prices |
|---|---|---|
| Home System (Landline) | In-home landline | $27.95 |
| Home System (Cellular) | At-home cellular (AT&T) | $37.95 |
| Mobile System | Cellular mobile system (AT&T) | $47.95 |
*Discounted monthly rates are available via semiannual and annual payment plans.
Comparing Medical Alert to the Competition
Medical Alert is a strong contender in the medical alert system industry. With affordable pricing and straightforward, dependable products, it’s no secret why many older adults put their trust in Medical Alert. That said, Medical Alert’s product lineup is fairly limited, and the company doesn’t offer the latest and greatest technology. If you want a more advanced system or just want to compare your options, be sure to check out the top-rated providers below.
A Closer Look at Medical Alert’s Systems and Value
Home System (Landline)
Medical Alert Landline
The landline Home System is Medical Alert’s standard option. Priced at $27.95 per month, this basic plan is the most inexpensive medical alert system the brand offers. You can lower your rates to $19.95 per month with an annual payment plan. For comparison, Medical Guardian’s prices for at-home systems start at $29.95 per month. The Home System includes a standard base unit with a built-in two-way speaker and a water-resistant wearable help button (wrist or lanyard). Fall detection is also available for an extra $10 per month, which is pretty standard.
The system’s 800-foot range from the base unit to the pendant is smaller than some of its major competitors’ ranges. Other providers we’ve reviewed, like MobileHelp, have long in-home ranges of up to 1,400 feet. However, if you live in a modest-sized home, you should be covered with Medical Alert, no problem.
Home System (Cellular)
Medical Alert Cellular
Medical Alert’s cellular option is a good fit for people who spend most of their time at home and don’t have a landline. Starting at $37.95 per month, it’s slightly more expensive than LifeStation’s prices and LifeFone’s monthly costs for similar systems. The cellular system is $10 more per month than the landline system, so if you’re looking to save a few bucks and you have a landline, we’d recommend the landline system.
Buyer’s Tip: We like that you don’t have to pay any equipment fees when signing up with Medical Alert. Keep in mind that, since you don’t own the devices, you will have to return all of them if you end your subscription.
The system comes with wireless equipment (your standard base station and water-resistant wearable help button), and, other than the connection, it operates exactly like the landline version. The cellular Home System runs on AT&T’s cellular network, so as long as you live in an area with reliable coverage, you’ll be set. As with the landline system, you can add fall detection for $10 per month.
Mobile System
Medical Alert Mobile System
Medical Alert’s Mobile System starts at $47.95 per month, making it the company’s most expensive plan; however, it also gives you the most bang for your buck. It includes a mobile unit, a water-resistant help button (your choice of a neck pendant or wrist button), and a black carrying case that can attach to a belt or bag strap. The help button communicates with the mobile unit, which can also act as a base station at home. The maximum range between the mobile unit and the help button is 400 feet.
The mobile unit’s battery lasts up to five days, longer than most other mobile GPS devices on the market. Whether you’re picking up groceries or taking a walk in town, help is just one call away. The system includes two-way talk and GPS location tracking, so Medical Alert can send help to you wherever you are. Fall detection is available as an add-on; just keep in mind that you’ll have to wear an additional fall detection pendant.
Add-on Accessories: Pricing and Features
On top of two freebies, Medical Alert offers two add-ons for additional monthly fees.
| Add-on | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Fall Detection | $10 per month | – Automatic fall detection – Waterproof wearable pendant that calls for help even if button isn’t pressed |
| Protection Plan | $5 per month | – Equipment warranty up to $350 if your system gets lost, stolen, or damaged |
| Medical Alert Connect | Free | – Mobile app for subscribers and caregivers with instant notifications if your loved one presses their help button |
| Key Lockbox | Free with annual payment option | – Gives emergency personnel quick access to your door key in an emergency |
How to Get the Best Deal With Medical Alert
One of the best ways to save with Medical Alert is opting for a semiannual or annual payment plan, which will save you over $35 every year. The semiannual subscription gives you the added perk of free ground shipping, while the annual subscription includes free shipping and a free key lockbox. Don’t you just love the word free?
Did You Know? Medical Alert provides a free key lockbox with select plans. Most companies charge an additional fee for this equipment, so we found this to be a great value. It gives first responders quick access to your home if there is an emergency, which will prevent costly damage to your front door.
Medical Alert runs seasonal promotions throughout the year. Keep in mind that promotions are constantly changing. To get the best deal, check the company’s website or speak to a representative who can help you choose the best plan for your budget and let you in on current deals.
One other thing to note — Medical Alert offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. If you’re not completely satisfied with the service, you can return your system in the first month for a full refund, minus shipping costs.
Is Medical Alert Right for Me?
Let’s start with the at-home systems. Because their range is somewhat limited, we recommend the at-home systems if your house is on the smaller side. These systems are also a good fit if you are on a tight budget or just need some basic coverage.
FYI: While Medical Alert’s prices are slightly higher than Bay Alarm Medical’s prices, they are lower than Lifeline’s costs and starting prices for many other brands.
The Mobile System is perfect for those who want a discreet wearable but are also budget-conscious. The system’s mobile unit is sleek, lightweight, and affordable. It’s also a good option for individuals with pacemakers or defibrillators. For these people, Medical Alert recommends wearing the device in its belt case rather than on a lanyard. The fall detection button (which does not contain a magnet) can be worn around the neck safely (though it should still be at least 3 inches from the pacemaker or defibrillator), adding an important layer of safety.
Final Thoughts on Pricing and Value of Medical Alert
Overall, we found Medical Alert to be a solid option for those who prefer a straightforward system without many bells and whistles. With high-quality service, freebies, fast response times, and excellent customer service, you’ll be getting great value. We also like that you don’t have to worry about hidden fees or lengthy contracts. The biggest drawbacks we saw are the company’s limited at-home coverage (only 800 feet) and a lack of choices for add-on equipment and features. That said, there’s a lot to like about the brand. With a 30-day money-back guarantee, what have you got to lose? We recommend giving Medical Alert a shot.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Alert
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How much does Medical Alert cost per month?
The prices for your Medical Alert system will depend on your chosen system and whether you choose to pay monthly, semiannually, or annually. Their current offerings can run you anywhere from $19.95 to $47.95 per month, depending on your chosen system and payment plan.
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I don’t want to be locked into a long-term contract, can I avoid that?
Yes, Medical Alert doesn’t require long-term contracts. While you will have to sign a monitoring agreement, you can pay on a month-to-month basis and cancel at any time. You also won’t have to pay activation or equipment fees.
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Can I shower with Medical Alert’s equipment?
Yes, you can shower with Medical Alert equipment. Their wearable devices are water-resistant, so you can safely press your help button while showering to receive help in the event of a fall or injury. However, we do not recommend submerging the button in water.
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Is Medical Alert monitoring reliable?
Medical Alert offers reliable 24-hour monitoring, and they have fast response times (19 seconds on average) compared to the industry average.