Medical alert systems provide an invaluable service for those who want to stay safe and independent in their homes. But with so many different providers and pricing plans available, it can be challenging to determine how much a medical alert system will cost you. In this comprehensive guide to medical alert system pricing, we will break down the costs of equipment, monthly fees, cancellation fees, and more. We will also discuss discounts and ways to save on your medical alert system purchase. Read on to find out more!
Cost of Medical Alert Systems
It is essential to understand that there are different types of medical alert systems on the market, and each style has its own set of costs associated with it. This comprehensive guide to Medical Alert Systems Cost will break down the different types of systems available and the equipment, monthly fees, cancellation fees, and discounts associated with each class.
Type of System:
Medical Alert Systems can be divided into two main categories: landline-based systems and mobile systems.
Landline-based systems are the most traditional type of system and have been around the longest. They are also the most affordable option, with equipment costing as little as $20 and monthly fees from $14.95 to $40.00 per month. However, landline-based systems require a landline phone to work, which can be a problem for people who don’t have a landline or travel frequently.
Home wall-mounted alert systems are a type of medical alert system permanently installed in your home. These systems typically include a base station unit mounted on the wall and one or more portable pendants or buttons that the user can wear.
Mobile systems are the newest type of system on the market and offer the most flexibility, as they can be used anywhere and by anyone when there is cell service. Mobile systems typically cost more than landline-based systems, with equipment costing around $100 and monthly fees from $10.00 to $35.00 per month. However, portable systems often come with additional features, such as GPS tracking and fall detection, which can be worth the extra cost.
Mobile systems offer the most significant independence and protection, as they allow users to remain active and connected even when away from home. For this reason, they are often the best choice for seniors who live alone or travel frequently.
Common Medical Alert Fees
- Installation fees: These fees can range from 0 – $200.00 depending on what installation needs to take place to get the medical alert system to work correctly.
- Monthly Monitoring Fees: After the equipment is paid for, most companies charge a monthly monitoring fee. The average monthly cost is between $20-and $40 but can be as high as $60/per month.
- Cancellation Fees: Some companies will charge a cancellation fee if you decide to cancel your service before your contract is up. These fees can range from $0-to $300.
- Discounts: Many companies offer discounts for those who prepay for their service or sign up for a more extended contract. Discounts can range from 0%-15%.
Installation fees for medical alert systems
Installation fees for medical alert systems typically range from $0 to $200. The installation fee includes the cost of setting up the equipment. The price may be waived if you sign up for a long-term contract.
Some companies offer discounts for multiple units. These fees will have to be considered in your overall budget. Depending on the manufacturer, they may offer installation as an upgraded add-on feature.
Monthly monitoring fees for
Medical alert systems typically fall in the $20 to $40 range. However, some companies charge as much as $70 per month for their services. In addition to monthly monitoring fees, many companies also charge activation fees and equipment rental fees. Some companies will waive these fees if you sign up for a long-term contract, while others may offer discounts for customers who pay annually.
Cancellation fees
Cancellation fees are also standard among medical alert system providers and need to be understood before purchasing. These fees can range in price and are typically charged if you cancel your service before your contract.
Early termination fees may also apply if you cancel your service before your contract period. Companies like Bay Alarm Medical are one of the few who do not require a minimum contract length, but most do.
Some companies will cancel your service with no charge as long as you ship back their equipment; the cancelation will be finalized.
To cancel your service, you will need to contact the company you have your current contract with, typically by phone, to start the process.
Add on cost for medical alert systems.
There are a few extra costs for certain types of medical alert systems. These can include:
Fall detection: Many companies offer fall detection as an add-on service for an additional monthly fee. This feature can be helpful for seniors who live alone and are at risk of falling.
GPS tracking: Some providers offer GPS tracking as an add-on service. This can be helpful if you have a loved one who wanders or is prone to getting lost.
Cellular Monitoring: Many medical alert systems now have the option to use cellular monitoring. This means that even if your power and landlines are down, the emergency operators will still be able to contact you.
GPS Tracking: Some devices now come with GPS tracking, which can be helpful if you frequently travel or have a loved one who wanders.
Additional Pendants or Buttons: You might want extra pendants, and if your provider does not offer them with your original plan, these could cost more.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I cancel my service early? Many larger providers will offer risk-free trial periods, so you do not get hit with cancellation free if you cancel. But not everyone does this. Some companies will implement a cancellation fee or prorate the time left in the contract.
What are the most cost-effective medical alert devices? Wall-mounted units with a bare pendant will typically cost less than a mobile unit. This is because these wall units usually have a range of 500 to 1400 feet.
Is a free medical alert system a possibility? The short answer is no. You will almost always have some fees associated with monitoring plans. However, discounts can be found for seniors and other qualified groups. We wrote an article on how to get a free medical alert system.
Do you have to have subscription fees for a medical alert system? Almost all alert systems have subscription fees associated with them. However, many companies might waive the cost when you purchase the device in full without renting it.
Pricing from the most popular medical alert system companies
| Medical Alert System Company | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Medical Guardian | $29.95 |
| Bay Alarm Medical | $19.95 |
| MobileHelp | $19.95 |
| Medical Alert | $18.28 |
| LifeFone | $20.79 |
| MedicalCareAlert | $29.95 |
| GetSafe | $24.95 |
| Rescue Touch | $99.00 |
| Qmedic | $25.00 |
Final thoughts on medical alert system pricing
When it comes to medical alert system pricing, there are a lot of factors to consider. So be sure to read the fine print and understand all fees before signing up for a service. And remember, discounts may be available for seniors and other qualified groups. These devices may also be tax deductible.
By understanding all the cost that comes with a medical alert system, you will be able to decide what is the best fit for you and your budget.
