Is This “As Seen On TV” Medical Alert System Worth Your Hard-Earned Money? Read On To Find Out.
Unlike a cellphone, this medical alert system doesn’t require you to unlock a device to dial a number. You just need to press the button to be connected with local emergency services in your area.
There’s no shortage of options when it comes to medical alert systems. From feature-laden GPS trackers to simple help buttons, various systems are available to suit almost any need.
You may have come across the FastHelp medical alert system in your search. But how does it compare to the competition, and is it worth the cost?
We’ve done the research to review the FastHelp medical alert system, so you can shop smarter and find the ideal device for your needs.
- Cost: $299 plus shipping and handling
- Range: You must be within cellular network range to place an emergency call
- Connectivity: Cellular
- Fall detection option: No
- Price for fall detection: NA
FastHelp Medical Alert System Overview
FastHelp is a medical alert system based in North Canton, Ohio. You may even have seen the company’s ads on TV. While the Better Business Bureau (BBB) does not accredit the company, it does have an A+ rating.
The company claims to save users time in the event of an emergency. Unlike a cellphone, this medical alert system doesn’t require you to unlock a device to dial a number. You just need to press the button to be connected with local emergency services in your area.
Unlike other at-home medical alert systems, the FastHelp device doesn’t require you to be in the range of a base station. You just need to be in the cellular network range to place a call. As long as you have the FastHelp device with you and are within cellular coverage, you have direct access to emergency services.
If you have a working cell phone, this service may not be right for you. However, if you’re worried about unlocking and dialing your phone during an emergency, this simple device might provide you with some priceless peace of mind.
You can buy the device directly from the brand or online via Amazon.
Other Recommended Medical Alert Systems
If you’re looking for an in-home system or medical alert device with more features, consider the following options:
- Medical Guardian: This is a good choice for people with an active lifestyle who want a mobile on-the-go monitoring option.
- Aloe Care Health: This brand’s medical alert system has a motion sensor for automatic fall detection.
- MobileHelp: MobileHelp’s six different systems feature plan prices start at $19.95 per month.
- Bay Alarm Medical: This budget medical alert system plan starts at $19.95 per month.
- LifeFone: This medical alert system is a solid choice for those seeking comprehensive caregiver monitoring tools.
- Medical Alert: This Connect America brand offers several simple medical alert systems with no contracts.
FastHelp Medical Alert System Review
FastHelp is a one-size-fits-all medical alert system that allows you to speak directly with a 911 operator with the push of a button.
Press the button, connect to 911, and they’ll send help.
You can carry the small device, attach it to your belt using the belt clip, or wear it around your neck with the attachable lanyard.
We recommend this system if you’re looking for a simple device you can use everywhere. Because it’s a direct line to 911, it’s a great fit for many users living in different situations, including:
- People living alone
- People who frequently walk alone at night
- People who drive at night
- People who travel solo
- People worried about having a medical emergency
It’s not a good choice if you’re looking for a device with professional monitoring and fall detection.
It’s also a poor choice for anyone who lives outside of cellular range. For example, if you live in a rural location, you may have trouble getting a reliable connection.
We like that the device offers two-way communication. Also, when you make your purchase, there’s no contract, just a one-time fee. Once you buy the device, it’s yours forever, unlike other systems that charge you for leasing equipment.
When you place your order, the device will ship out within two to four business days. If you decide the device is not for you, you can return it within 30 days for your money back.
While FastHelp doesn’t provide real-time GPS tracking, 911 operators can use it to triangulate your location. However, the company recommends letting emergency services know your exact location when you call for assistance.
A significant downside of the FastHelp system is the price tag. While you’re only paying a one-time fee, it’s steep. It also doesn’t include coveted features like professional monitoring or fall detection.
It’s also not that different from having a cellphone on you at all times. Also not ideal is that you can’t add alternate contacts. The only contact you can call is local emergency services. Furthermore, when you trigger a call, you have five seconds to cancel it.
The device could also be more compact. As it is now, you can wear it around your neck, but it’s bulky for this purpose.
FastHelp Pricing
If you’re not happy with your purchase, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund.
The original price of the FastHelp device was $299, but it’s currently advertised at a discounted price of $149. You can also buy it for a discounted price on Amazon.
Unfortunately, when you purchase directly from FastHelp, shipping is extra.
On the plus side, there are no activation fees or service contracts. Also, if you’re not happy with your purchase, you can return it within 30 days for a full refund.
FastHelp Features and Customer Service
Some of the features you’ll get with the FastHelp device include:
- Two-way communication with a 911 operator
- Water-resistant button
- Wearable button clipped to a belt or worn around your neck
Features missing from the FastHelp device include:
- GPS tracking and mobile app
- Automatic fall detection
- Professional monitoring
FastHelp Reviews From Customers
FastHelp does not have a large presence on third-party review websites.
FastHelp on Amazon
The average star rating for the FastHelp on Amazon is 3.9/5.0 stars out of 144 global ratings. To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, Amazon does not use a simple average. Their system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Things people like about the FastHelp device:
- Long-lasting battery
- Great reception
- Device conveniently lets you know the battery and reception status via LED indicators
- Easy to wear
- No monthly monitoring fees
What People Don’t Like About The FastHelp Medical Alert System:
- Reports of defective devices calling 911 autonomously
- Reports of people receiving devices that don’t work
- Problems with the battery not working after charging
- Reports of the device not calling 911 when prompted. However, it’s not clear if this is because the person was out of range.
- Problems with customer service and reports of interactions with rude servicepeople
- Some report having difficulty getting technical support for the device
