Discover the best emergency medical alert systems without monthly fees, so you can keep your loved ones safe on any budget.
Do you remember the Life Alert commercials? They highlighted a very real and scary possibility for many people: falling but not being able to reach a phone to dial for help. If you looked up this well-known brand for your loved ones, but the Life Alert cost has given you second thoughts, there’s good news: you can purchase medical alert systems that don’t require any kind of subscription or monthly fee. Better yet, they offer the same peace of mind as their professionally monitored counterparts, but at a fraction of the cost. Learn more about the different features available in the best emergency alert systems with no monthly fees.
The Best Medical Alert Systems With No Monthly Fee
- LogicMark Guardian Alert 911: Best for Long Range
- CallToU Caregiver Pager: Best for Caregivers
- MyNotifi: Best for Fall Protection
- Geemarc Ampli600 Amplified Emergency Connect Phone: Best for Calling Multiple People
- Silent Beacon: Best for On-the-Go Assistance
| Cost | $120.38 | $21.67 | $199 | $289 | $83.32 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Range | 600 ft. | 500 ft. | 98 ft. | 100 ft. | 200 ft. |
| Warranty | 1 Year | None | 24 months | 1 Year | 1 Year |
| Who Does it Contact? | 911 | In-home caregiver | Custom numbers | 6 custom numbers | Custom numbers |
| Fall Detection? | No | No | Yes | No | No |
LogicMark Guardian Alert 911
Starting at $120.38
Best Features:
- 600-foot range from base
- Belt clip or lanyard
- Connects directly to 911
CallToU Caregiver Pager
Starting at $21.67
Best Features:
- 500-foot range in open area
- Select between 0-110 decibels
- Waterproof transmitter and call button
MyNotifi
Starting at $199
Best Features:
- Syncs with a smartphone
- Belt clip or wristband
- Fall detection
Geemarc Ampli600 Amplified Emergency Connect Phone
Starting at $289
Best Features:
- Calls up to 6 numbers
- Includes 2 emergency transmitters
- Large buttons on phone
Silent Beacon
Starting at $83.32
Best Features:
- GPS enabled
- Syncs to Bluetooth
- Silent alarm mode
Conclusion
A medical alert system is helpful for loved ones whose health may require them to quickly seek emergency assistance, whether from 911 dispatchers or an in-home caregiver. Fortunately, it isn’t necessary to pay a monthly fee for this service. The best medical alert systems with no monthly fees have one-time purchase prices that can fit most budgets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Alert Systems
How do medical alerts work?
Medical alert systems are typically worn as wristbands or pendants. The individual can easily push a button on the band or pendant to instantly call 911 or pre-programmed numbers in a medical emergency. Many emergency alert systems also include two-way audio so that they act as a phone to facilitate communication.
Who should wear a medical alert?
Medical alert systems are a smart choice for the elderly who may be at risk of falling or suffering a heart attack. Other people who may benefit from wearing an emergency alert system include those with diabetes, food allergies or seizure disorders, as well as other conditions that may require swift medical attention.
Are medical alerts worth it?
Emergency alert systems provide invaluable peace of mind as they can potentially save the life of a loved one. Plus, many medical alert systems with no monthly fees can be purchased for less than $100.
Who gets called when something happens?
The person called when the button is pressed depends on the medical alert system and how it is programmed. Some emergency alert systems only call 911. Others call 911 and/or other numbers programmed into the device, such as those of caregivers, family members, neighbors or healthcare providers.
What’s the difference between no-fee medical alert systems and monthly fee medical alert systems?
Medical alert systems that require a monthly fee are monitored by a 24/7 call center. Instead of only calling 911 or trying your programmed numbers one by one, these systems instantly connect to the monitoring center when someone presses the panic button. A response specialist will help determine what kind of assistance is needed.
Are medical alert systems covered by Medicare?
Medicare typically does not cover medical alert systems, but it is worth speaking to your healthcare or insurance providers to discuss options. A Medicare Advantage plan may pay for your medical alert system. Medicaid and long-term care insurance are also worth exploring, and it doesn’t hurt to ask the manufacturers for discounts or payment options.
What should I look for in a medical alert system?
Look for a system with two-way audio so that your loved one can communicate with first responders when in distress. If your loved one wears a hearing aid, look for a system that will turn the volume up to a suitable decibel level. Decide whether you want a system that only calls 911 or one that will allow you to program the system with other numbers. For loved ones who are active outdoors, a Bluetooth-enabled device provides the best protection.