Medical Guardian Reviews
Pros
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Fast and helpful monitoring service
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Reliable fall detection
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Mobile monitoring solutions
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Versatile pricing, no hidden charges
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Long battery life across devices
Cons
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Equipment fee
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No CO, fire, or smoke detectors
Medical Guardian has over ten years of experience in providing medical and security monitoring services. Aiming to help the elderly age gracefully and independently in their own homes, Medical Guardian offers accurate fall detection functionality along with wireless and mobile monitoring units for those without a phone line.
In addition to its array of monitoring equipment, the company’s main strength is the well-rounded personal emergency service that caters to the needs of seniors or recovering patients. Plus, in addition to the 50 U.S. states, Medical Guardian also works in Canada and Puerto Rico (device restrictions may apply).
Although the company doesn’t offer long-term contracts, it still rewards customers who commit for a longer period with numerous benefits like free shipping and a complimentary month of service. The payment plans are customer-friendly, with services starting at $27.45 per month, and you can reach out via phone at +1 (800) 863-8985 to get a customized quote.
1 month of free service and extras for Best Reviews readers
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Monitoring services
Monitoring resources
24/7/365 monitoring
Medical monitoring
2-way communication
Fall detection
Fire detection
CO detection
Activity monitoring
Medication monitoring
Multilingual assistance
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Medical Guardian knows better than anyone else that a lightning-fast control center is the heart of any alert system, and therefore it only relies on well-trained operators available 24/7 every day of the year.
The company doesn’t outsource anything, and its service quality is backed by a certification from Underwriter’s Laboratories and the Department of Defense. All operators are 911/EMT trained professionals who are ready to assist in any case of emergency.
All monitoring agents store the senior’s medical history on file, which is immediately shared with the dispatched paramedics. On top of that, customers have the option to customize their contact list by deciding the notification order of friends, caregivers, and designated doctors during an emergency.
Moreover, to make sure every customer is properly assisted, the operators are also prepared to deal with language barriers. If the caller’s native language isn’t English, they’ll immediately involve a third-party translation agency that acts as a mediator.
In short, a press of the emergency button is all it takes to ensure that help is on the way, while the caring monitoring agent will maintain the call, keeping the senior calm through the two-way communication system.
Fall detection
Living in constant fear of falling can make anyone feel cautious and depressed. This worry can contribute to seniors becoming less active, which leads to muscle weakening. To ensure the elderly are immediately assisted in case of a fall, Medical Guardian offers fall detection as an add-on for all available systems.
The technology behind the system uses accelerometers and barometric pressure meters to track the carrier’s speed and movement. Should the readings drop below the normal level, the equipment interprets this as a fall and automatically notifies the monitoring center.
Keep in mind that although the system is made to be as accurate as possible, the pendant isn’t 100% failproof. So, the recommendation is to always press the button manually if possible.
Monitoring equipment
Monitoring equipment
Central units
Wireless/cellular systems
Wrist pendants
Necklaces
Microphone buttons
Waterproof buttons
Lockbox
Automatic testing
Battery lifetime
18 months
Station backup battery
5+ days
Voice extenders
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Medical Guardian‘s monitoring equipment is of the highest quality available, matching the company’s top monitoring services. Seniors, recovering patients, and caregivers can choose between traditional in-home devices that come with a base station or completely portable life alert systems.
The in-home devices available are the MGClassic and MGHome Cellular, while the portable tools are the MGMini Lite, MGMini, MGMove.
MGClassic and MGHome Cellular
Both MGClassic and MGHome Cellular have a base station that sports a sleek appearance and houses a sensitive two-way communication system, allowing seniors to talk to the operator from the far end of the room.
MGClassic
MGHome Cellular
The device comes with a UL bracket that prevents it from accidentally disconnecting from the power supply. The MGClassic maintains a connection with the wearable button within 1,300 feet. Plus, a lengthy backup battery keeps the main station operational for 32 hours, so users are protected even during a power failure.
MGHome Cellular is similar to the Classic version, but instead of using a landline, it relies on a cellular network that uses 4G technology. Both systems support multiple devices at the same time – including the fall detection button – meaning older couples or groups of people can stay protected using the same base unit.
MGMini Lite
MGMini Lite extends a user’s personal safety net beyond the security of their home. This exceptionally lightweight and comfortable device looks like a traditional smartwatch but simpler and more discreet.
The wearable is water-resistant and packed with essential features, such as location, steps, and activity tracking. In emergencies, its one-touch button can reach monitoring centers around the clock.
What’s more, there’s an online portal and app that allows users to manage emergency contacts, organize tasks, set activity reminders, track their steps and activity, and more. Plus, fall detection is available as an add-on.
MGMini
There’s always been a strong demand for discreet and portable alert systems for seniors. MGMini is Medical Guardian’s answer to that pressing need – one of the smallest mobile medical alert devices on the market. This two-inch pendant is water-resistant, has an incredible battery life of up to five days and features built-in GPS with hourly location updates.
MGMini also features steps and activity tracking, which can be accessed through the online portal and app. Its two-way audio speakers connect seniors to emergency operators 24/7. Along with being water-resistant, MGMini comes in four colors, and the package includes two lanyards, a charging cradle, and a belt clip. Finally, fall detection is also available as an add-on.
MGMove
Many seniors don’t want to use life alerts because they’re too big or flashy. This is where MGMove comes in – a sleek smartwatch that looks like a fashionable accessory but actually hides various helpful features for when the wearer is out and about.
It only takes a tap or press to connect to Medical Guardian’s care agents. The device comes with two-way communication and GPS tracking and it doesn’t require a smartphone to work.
In addition to steps and activity tracking, the device also provides weather information, and in case of emergency, real-time location is also shown in the online portal and app. Interesting and useful add-ons are available, such as the voice-to-text built-in messaging app, and the reminders application to keeping track of medications, events, and appointments.
Although MGMove is excellent for tech-savvy users, it’s important to keep in mind that its battery life is only up to 24 hours, and the device isn’t water-resistant enough to be worn in the shower, bath, or pool.
MyGuardian
All Medical Guardian systems offer access to a handy online hub that is also available as a mobile app. It’s where customers can easily manage their billing information, get in touch with their care circle, change their emergency contact information, and more.
Additionally, seniors can organize their day with MyGuardian, as it allows them to schedule doctor appointments, activity reminders, and tasks.
Loved ones also benefit from installing MyGuardian on their smartphones. The app features recurrent system statuses and reports for extra peace of mind, such as letting you know whether the device has been working properly in the last few days, and its location.
Setup
Getting started with Medical Guardian is a piece of cake, both in terms of ordering the system and setting it up. The customer service team helps select the best equipment and monitoring method for your personal needs.
It ensures that your profile (or that of the senior you’re caring for) is carefully filled in with contact details for preferred doctors, emergency services, family members and – in the case of non-emergency situations – other caregivers.
When you receive the medical alarm equipment, just plug the central control unit into the power outlet and landline. If you’ve opted for a wireless device, it will of course not even need either of these. Once the system is connected, simply test the system by pressing the alert button, which will connect you to the control center to verify the test.
Pricing
Pricing
Activation fee
Lifetime price guarantee
Free spouse monitoring
Free shipping
(annual subscription)
Free repairs & replacements
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Medical Guardian offers various plans and whichever package you pick, you aren’t forced to commit to a long-term contract thanks to the monthly, quarterly, and annual subscriptions. MGClassic is the least expensive plan, costing $27.45 each month with free equipment.
There are no hidden fees either, but keep in mind that ordering extra help buttons or other add-ons – such as fall detection or a wall button – will slightly increase your monthly fee. Fall detection costs $10 per month, while the company charges $2.99 per month for each wall button ($4.99 when it’s voice activated). The cherry on top is that Medical Guardian offers prorated refunds on any unused month when canceling the service.
MGClassic
$27.45/mo
Billed monthly
Landline
No equipment fee
No activation fee
32-hour backup battery
1,300-feet range
Fall detection available
Extra neck/wrist buttons
MGHome Cellular
$34.79/mo
Billed monthly
AT&T 4G cellular
$149.95 equipment fee
No activation fee
32-hour backup battery
1,400-feet range
Fall detection available
Extra neck/wrist buttons
Even though the monthly payment plan allows for more flexible management of your chosen medical alert service, opting for a longer period has its advantages too. The annual plans cost 16% less than the monthly ones and come with other benefits like free shipping and a lockbox.
The service is available to be ordered online or upon requesting a free quote, which lands you a special bonus offer. You can also give Medical Guardian a call at +1 (800) 863-8985 to receive a free quote and likely an additional benefit if you decide to order. Plus, new customers are eligible for one month of service free of charge by using our latest coupon code.
Payment options
Visa
Mastercard
American Express
Discover
PayPal
Wire transfer
Check
Cryptocurrency
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Customer service
Customer support
24/7
Live chat
Email
Phone
Community
FAQs
Video tutorials
Remote desktop
Blog
Facebook
Instagram
X
YouTube
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Medical Guardian has been accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating, and proves to be very prompt in handling customer requests through a wide array of communication channels.
Operators are available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. You can reach customer support via email, live chat, and over the phone at +1 (800) 863-8985. As part of our testing, we contacted Medical Guardian via live chat and had a helpdesk agent get back to us in just a few seconds.
The website itself is also a great source of information, with the option of receiving more detailed recommendations in a free brochure. Alternatively, you can send the company’s support team a Facebook message or a Tweet. Finally, the homepage also contains useful introductory videos about the system, setup, and service itself.
Bottom line
Medical Guardian is a leading force in life alert systems, and it ensures a strong position by constantly renovating its service and equipment. The company provides a fast and responsive monitoring service and stellar medical alert devices.
Each base station boasts different specifications, catering to seniors with a wide range of different lifestyles and activity levels. Even though Medical Guardian lacks additional equipment that is typically appreciated, such as environmental detectors, the highly trained monitoring staff makes up for this absence.
Plus, since Medical Guardian works with competitive prices without shackling customers to a lengthy contract, it’s hard not to consider choosing this service. Opting for a longer service even promises further benefits, such as a discounted rate and free shipping.
Medical Guardian FAQ
Is Medical Guardian available in Canada?
Yes. Medical Guardian provides service in all 50 states, coupled with Canada and Puerto Rico. On the down side, service quality in Canada may differ from that in the U.S., and the company assert’s the possibility of device restrictions.
Is Medical Guardian BBB rated?
Yes, they earned a stellar A+, which is the highest grade available. Medical Guardian also put up a link that points directly to their BBB page so customers can investigate the track record themselves. The company is accredited since June 2009, and they scored a 4.12 composite score out of 5, which is a summary of the BBB rating and a handful of reviews.
Where is Medical Guardian located?
Medical Guardian’s mailing address is 1818 Market Street, Suite 1200, Philadelphia, PA 19106.
Are there promo codes for Medical Guardian?
Medical Guardian is very diligent when it comes to coupon codes. Every month, we find new seasonal promotions. From Black Friday to National Healthcare Month, the company always came up with a different coupon. Examples for promo codes: a discount on the monthly price of a medical alert system; free month of service where they don’t charge for using the system; and free shipping for all plans.
Beside the ever-changing seasonal coupons, Medical Guardian also has several permanent bonuses. Those, who opt for the annual subscription plan, are eligible for one free month of service, coupled with a free lock box, not to mention the ground shipping is also on the house. There is also a questionnaire that provides a free quote and a special bonus offer.
It’s important to mention that only new customers can avail said promo codes. Therefore the timing must be impeccable. We recommend consulting our coupon section to learn more about the latest promotions.
What are the complaints about Medical Guardian?
Despite being one of the top selling medical alert companies, Medical Guardian doesn’t have a spotless track record. Visiting consumer advocacy websites such as BBB and Yelp, will reveal some coherency in the complaints. People seem to agree that the staff at the customer support is kind, patient, and willing to hear customers out. However, they are slow when it comes to resolving problems. Relatives and caregivers especially criticized the company for not handling refunds and cancellations in an efficient manner, leading to unwanted renewals and pending payments. Other complaints touched on the subject of ‘too much marketing’ and not informing people about the potential flaws in the fall detection system.
In our review section, people only shared stories about their positive experience, complementing the company for the reliable monitoring service and well-functioning devices, potentially balancing the critical scales.
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