Can You Trust a Free Medical Alert System?

If you’re shopping for a medical alert system, you’ve probably noticed some trends in pricing. Most systems incur a monthly fee, allowing users to either rent or purchase the hardware necessary to access emergency services. In some cases, though, an alert system will not have a monthly cost. Instead, the user pays only a one-time amount for the equipment.

While these are not free medical alert systems, they might tempt users into investing in a one-time cost option. But can these systems be trusted? Below, we’ve unpacked some of the reasons why these systems follow a different price model – and why you’ll always get the best possible deal with an Alert1 system.

While medical alert devices without a monthly fee can save money, their services are often far more limited than those provided with a recurring expense. Many of these devices rely on additional monthly costs and restrict options for receiving medical help.

• Limited hardware use – Some one-time cost alert systems have very limited mobile pendant options. In most cases, this hardware is limited to at-home use. These pendants do not have the technology necessary to provide medical assistance while outside of the house. This renders the device nearly useless unless the user is in range of the home system. If you’re on the go and need this type of support outside of the house, these options will not fit with your needs. Similarly, some of these devices only work through smartphones, further hindering the hardware’s capability.

• No fall detection – None of the one-time cost medical alert devices we reviewed offered fall detection services. If you feel safer with fall detection, these systems won’t work for you.
  

• Limited range – Most of these systems only allow communication with operators through in-home base stations. The wearable signaling device activates the base station and works as a speakerphone to communicate to the operator. In many cases, the range is limited to 150-200 feet. Ours is 600 feet.
  

• Limited contact options – Many of the one-time cost medical alert systems only allow users to contact 911. In most cases, you’ll likely need some more nuance when it comes to receiving emergency help. Sometimes 911 may be necessary, but other times, you will want to contact a friend or family member. Similarly, you will need to vocalize your situation to communicate with a 911 responder. If your accident has rendered you unable to speak, you may struggle to receive the care you need.
  

With a recurring cost medical alert system, you will get all the services you need to feel safe and secure in your environment – whether that’s at home or on the go. Systems from Alert1 allow users to connect through either a landline or a cell phone, depending on the service chosen, and you’ll be able to access help in a variety of ways. Simply push the button to be connected to an operator, who will then contact emergency services or a listed friend or family. Your calls are not limited to 911 dispatch, your device will have a larger range, and fall detection is included for an additional fee. Plus, our rates are well below Life Alert costs, allowing you to save money while still receiving the services you need.