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Medical Guardian Alert Systems: Cost, Features, and More

Medical Guardian has five alert systems, including our favorite, the MGMove smartwatch.

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SecureScore™: 9.1 / 10 This rating is derived from our editorial team's research, hands-on product testing, and customer surveys.
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You can’t take chances with a medical alert system. If you should suffer a fall or some other type of medical emergency, you need to know that your system is going to alert emergency personnel and caregivers immediately. We won’t beat around the bush: Medical Guardian certainly fits the bill when it comes to reliability.

What does a Medical Guardian system cost, though? Because while you can’t put a price on safety, none of us is made of money. What do you get for the price? Is the service worth the cost? And which of Medical Guardian’s five different systems offers the most value for the money? Lots of questions, but don’t worry – we’ve got lots of answers.

Key Takeaways

  • Medical alert systems are ideal for individuals with mobility issues or medical conditions.
  • Medical Guardian has five systems across two categories: at-home and on-the-go devices.
  • Medical alert systems are linked to a reduced risk of hospitalization.
  • Medical Guardian monthly plans start at $32.95, with fall detection starting at an additional $10 per month.

Pro Tip: You can take the Medical Guardian quiz directly on the company’s homepage to find out quickly which system and level of protection are best for you.

Medical Guardian

Medical Guardian

Expert Examined
From Christopher Norman, a Board-Certified Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with the National Council on Aging (NCOA)
Christopher Norman Headshot
“In my experience, each of our program participants gets an option between two different medical alert systems (one for more active folks and one for less active folks, generally speaking). Overall the feedback about both types of devices is favorable, with people often reporting that the medical alert system helps them feel safer when they are alone.” Read more about Christopher Norman →

Setting Up Medical Guardian

Buying Experience

Medical Guardian makes buying straightforward. All systems, features, and prices are clearly listed online, and one click shows everything you need to compare options for yourself or a loved one. We completed checkout in under 10 minutes with no pushy sales tactics or hidden fees.

We also appreciate the availability of their customer service centers. Their support teams are available 12 hours a day (8am to 8pm EST) on weekdays and 8 hours a day (9am to 5pm EST) on weekdays.

 

Medical Guardian homepage product optionsMedical Guardian homepage product options

Installation Process

Getting our Medical Guardian systems up and running was quick and straightforward. All three devices were fully operational within 15 minutes of unboxing.

We tested the MGHome Cellular, MGMini, and MGMove smartwatch, and each followed the same streamlined process. Every system arrived in its own box with clear instructions, and setup could be completed either online or by phone with a support rep. We tried both methods and found each equally easy.

My Guardian product boxes

My Guardian product boxes

We started with the online setup first. Scanning the QR code on the box took us straight to the installation guide, where we entered the device UDI and basic payment details. The entire process took just a few minutes.

Phone setup was equally simple. We reached a representative almost immediately, and they walked us through the same steps in real time. What stood out most was automatic device syncing. After activating the main unit, all additional equipment paired on its own through the MyGuardian app, with no manual setup required.

Packages and Pricing

Let’s talk about price. When it comes to medical alert systems, there are three costs to consider: the cost of equipment, the cost of monitoring, and the cost of any extras you might need. All of these costs can vary widely depending on the specific system you choose.

We think Medical Guardian’s equipment is competitively priced. The MGHome Cellular is only $149.95, and the MGMove smartwatch costs $199.95. We appreciate Medical Guardian’s transparent pricing structure. It helps older adults and caregivers make better decisions based on needs rather than just upfront costs.

MGMove and MGHome Cellular order summary

MGMove and MGHome Cellular order summary

As for monthly monitoring costs, those vary depending on the specific system you choose and the length of your subscription. We recommend choosing an annual plan, as they offer the largest discounts. Prices start at $27.95 and go up to $46.95 per month. The chart below provides a complete picture of what you can expect.

Medical Guardian alert systems System type Connection type Monthly plan cost Equipment fees
MGHome Landline At-home Landline Starts at $27.95 $149.95
MGHome Cellular (Home 2.0) At-home Cellular Starts at $34.95 $149.95
MGMini Mobile Cellular Starts at $39.95 $149.95
MGMini Lite Mobile On-the-go Starts at $42.95 $149.95
MGMove Mobile On-the-go Starts at $38.95 $199.95

Compared to most competitors, Medical Guardian offers more transparent pricing as they never charge setup or activation fees. The only extra cost is shipping. Standard shipping costs $12.50 (free with annual plans), two day costs $25, overnight costs $35, and overnight on a weekend costs $45.

Pro Tip: Check out our list of the best medical alert systems to compare Medical Guardian against some of the most well-known brands in the industry.

Mobile Alert System Features

All Medical Guardian devices deliver core safety features you’d expect from a premium medical alert provider. Press the help button, and you’re connected to certified emergency dispatchers in under 30 seconds. All systems include enhanced two-way audio, Smart Voice Assist for hands-free calling, and access to the MyGuardian portal and mobile app for device management.

Beyond these basics, each device includes its own particular set of features.

MGMini and MGMini Lite

The MGMini and the MGMini Lite come with their own set of features.

  • Extended battery life, lasting up to five days
  • Step tracking with updates on activity
  • Hourly GPS location updates
  • Wi-Fi positioning to identify location

MGMove

Meanwhile, the MGMove includes several additional bonus features.

MGMove

MGMove

  • Step tracking
  • Weather reports
  • Messaging ability using voice
  • Reminders

MGClassic

Classic Guardian from Medical Guardian

Classic Guardian from Medical Guardian

To these standard features, the MGClassic system adds

  • 1,300 feet of coverage
  • Option to sync with necklace or wristband (included)
  • 32 hours of battery power

MGHome Cellular (Home 2.0)

  • 1,400 feet of protection
  • Option to sync with necklace or wristband (included)

Of course, to all of these systems, you can add extras, such as fall detection. Let’s get into those next.

Pro Tip: Use our medical alert system buying guide to find out what you should be looking for in a device. We’ll tell you the features to consider, average cost breakdowns, company reviews, and equipment on the market.

Expert Examined
From Christopher Norman, a Board-Certified Geriatric Nurse Practitioner with the National Council on Aging (NCOA)
Christopher Norman Headshot
“One especially memorable patient told me that she learned more patience by wearing her medical alert system. She said that after she built up trust in the system over time, she developed more empathy for healthcare workers. I remember her son saying once that this “new” empathy for others was not something she demonstrated for decades previously. Was it the medical alert system? Trust? Consistency? Who can say for sure, but in my opinion the medical alert system certainly played a role in changing this woman’s outlook as she aged.”

Medical Guardian offers equipment you can use to supplement devices. It also offers add-ons to its service plans.

Add-on equipment and features Cost Function
MG protection plan $6.99 per month
  • Covers damaged equipment and comes with unlimited free battery replacements
Elite 911 $9.99 per month
  • Speaker box that connects to a 911 operator at the touch of a button
  • Two-way communication
  • Works with any cell network
Entryway lockbox for keys $2.99 per month
  • Allows first responders, friends, and family members to gain entry to your home in case of an emergency
OnGuard alerts $2.99 per month
  • Lets you send text messages and emails to people in your Care Circle in case of an emergency
Support circle apps $5 per month
  • Lets you chat with loved ones
  • Can schedule reminders
  • Available with MGMove
Fall detection $10 per month
  • Automatically detects falls and calls for help without needing to press a button
Wireless wall button $2.99 per month
  • Help button with a 500-foot range that connects to Medical Guardian’s monitoring center wirelessly
Voice-activated wall button $5 per month
  • Activates hands-free calls to Medical Guardian’s monitoring center
  • Comes with a call button and emergency pull cord
Additional alert pendants $2.99 per month (each)
  • Water-resistant
  • Can be used as a bracelet or necklace

MyGuardian App

Rather than just being an emergency tool, the MyGuardian app is a command center for health monitoring and family communication.

The app’s simple interface made it easy to manage our systems, even though we ordered multiple systems. In the app, we could organize them how we wanted with each system having its own dashboard designed specifically for its devices. The MGMove’s dashboard, for example, told us our location, allowed us to set up a list of reminders, and kept track of our health statistics.

MyGuardian app

MyGuardian app

Managing our account in the app is easy, too. You can make payments, change payment methods, set up autopay, or add new features to your plan. There’s also an option for saving medical information that first responders can access during an emergency.

The app also includes geofencing capabilities that alert caregivers when someone leaves designated safe zones. Family members will also like the activity tracking feature, which shows daily step counts and movement patterns.

Current Medical Guardian Deals

We’ve seen Medical Guardian frequently offer discounts for new customers. In the past, they have had holiday promotions with free equipment on select annual plans, complimentary expedited shipping, and bonus lockboxes. We’ve noticed these deals typically rotate monthly, so it’s worth checking their website or calling for the latest offers before purchasing.

Which Medical Guardian System Is Best for You?

Still having trouble deciding which device is best for you? Let’s break it down even further.

Who needs on-the-go medical alert systems?

We believe mobile medical alert systems work best for seniors who have active lifestyles outside their homes. If you’re still working, traveling, gardening, or simply enjoy independence, devices like the MGMove or MGMini keep you safe anywhere with cellular coverage. One in four Americans aged over 65 falls each year, with many incidents happening outside the home during routine activities.1 It’s one of the many reasons we recommend these on-the-go devices.

Who needs home medical alert systems?

At-home medical alert systems are best for anyone who spends most of their time indoors. If you have mobility challenges, use a walker or wheelchair, or simply prefer staying home, an at-home system offers reliable coverage. These setups typically offer longer battery life and stronger signal strength than mobile options, making them ideal for consistent home protection.

Bottom Line

If you’re an older adult looking for reliable emergency protection, Medical Guardian offers professional-grade safety at reasonable prices. The 24/7 U.S.-based monitoring center, intuitive equipment, and flexible pricing plans make emergency response accessible without being overly complex.

Best of all, you get comprehensive protection at prices that work for most budgets. Whether you need a basic in-home system starting at $27.95 per month or prefer the advanced features of the MGMove smartwatch, Medical Guardian makes professional emergency response accessible to anyone who needs it.

Medical Guardian FAQs

  • How does Medical Guardian work?

    When you press the emergency button on your Medical Guardian device, you’re routed to their monitoring center. Then, agents assess the situation and dispatch the appropriate first responders. They’ll also relay any relevant medical information and notify your emergency contacts.

  • Are Medical Guardian systems covered by insurance?

    Most medical alert systems are not covered by health insurance, but it varies depending on your provider. Some plans may fully or partially reimburse you for the cost of a device.

  • Does Medical Guardian have a warranty?

    Medical Guardian has a free manufacturer’s warranty that is active as long as you have a subscription.

  • What is the response time for Medical Guardian?

    In our testing, Medical Guardian’s average response time was 22 seconds, well below the industry standard of 45 seconds. We ran tests during different times of day and never waited more than 30 seconds to reach a live operator.

  • Does Medical Guardian call 911?

    Yes, Medical Guardian’s monitoring center will contact 911 and coordinate with local emergency services when needed. They can also reach out to your designated emergency contacts and provide reassurance during non-emergency situations.

Citations
  1. Center for Disease Control. (2024). Older Adult Falls Data. https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/index.html

Jenny-Wisneiwski
Written By
Jenny Wisniewski
Medical Alert System Expert

After earning a degree in journalism, Jenny Wisniewski spent much of her professional life in education; however, she returned to writing in earnest in the senior care space, acting as caregiver to her mother. She has hand-tested the industry’s top medical alert systems, writing nearly 50 in-depth articles that help seniors age safely in place. Jenny also covers caregiving, Medicare, assisted living, memory care, and Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Previously, she’s written for national publications such as Country Magazine and Sierra Magazine. Jenny holds dual bachelor’s degrees in English/Journalism and Political Science from Miami University in Oxford, OH. She currently resides in Milwaukee, WI.