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GreatCall

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4.4

Overall Score

LAST UPDATED: July 22nd, 2023

The customer's health and safety have always been the number one priority of GreatCall. That's why GreatCall designed the Lively Mobile with an easy-to-use emergency response button along with a suite of health and safety services. Whether you need urgent assistance, medical advice, or peace-of-mind, GreatCall makes it easy to stay safe, healthy and connected, 24/7. GreatCall's medical service is on the nation's #1 4G network so it can be used all over the country.

GreatCall has low monthly monitoring fees starting at $19.99 with no long-term contracts. There is also a one-year equipment warranty on all products. Read GreatCall reviews below to see what customers have to say about the medical alert provider.

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The Good

  • No Base Unit
  • Variety of Medical Alert Options
  • Health and Safety Packages
  • No Contracts or Cancellation Fees
  • IAED Certified Agents
  • Customer Service
  • Fastest Call Response Time

No Base Unit

Lively Mobile is an all-in-one lightweight device (.088 lbs) with no invasive base station required. Lively Mobile works like a small cell phone so you can take it anywhere, and it has no home base unit or tether to a landline. This makes GreatCall's medical alert systems extremely easy to use and set up.

Variety of Medical Alert Options

GreatCall has additional options outside of the typical medical alert device. The company offers smartphone and flip phone options that are made specifically with older adults in mind and also act as a medical alert device. Whether a customer is looking for a smartphone medical alert device, a more simple flip phone medical alert device, a medical alert button only, or a wearable medical alert device, GreatCall has every option. 

Keep in mind, capabilities with each medical alert plan vary depending on your chosen monthly plan. The information listed below includes all capabilities in the most advanced plans, so the more basic plans will not include all listed items. The complete medical alert options and offerings are below:

Jitterbug Smart2

The Jitterbug Smart2 is a smartphone and cellphone service with a built-in medical alert device. The upfront cost is $149.99 with a monthly fee ranging from $19.99–$34.99 as well as a $25 activation fee. The GreatCall Jitterbug has a large 5.5" screen, voice typing capabilities, and a front-facing speaker for more quality sound. The battery life is long-lasting, and the phone includes a 13MP built-in camera with a flash as well as a 5Star urgent response button. It also includes Internet access.

The Jitterbug Smart has added capabilities to enhance the user's everyday experience. You can receive daily, automated check-in calls that ask questions about pain levels, appetite, and overall well being as well as receive a weekly wellness call from a wellness expert. A personal operator is also available for finding addresses and phone numbers. The Jitterbug includes daily health tips for seniors directly from the American Heart Association and suggested brain games to challenge the mind and improve your memory. 

To further health assistance and emergency precautions, the Jitterbug Smart gives you access to urgent care 24/7 to speak with a nurse or doctor without an appointment. You can also request your prescriptions for common medications through the phone call. Caregivers can download the GreatCall Link app to stay informed of the health and safety of GreatCall product owners, and there is a product replacement available so if the Jitterbug owner ever loses or breaks the phone, GreatCall will replace it.  

Lively Flip

The GreatCall Lively Flip is a mobile device similar to the Jitterbug Smart2 except it is a flip phone rather than a smartphone. It is $99.99 upfront with a monthly fee ranging from $19.99–$34.99 as well as a $25 activation fee. The phone has an Urgent Response button on the keypad for easy, 24/7 access to the Lively Response Team, should you need any assistance whatsoever. It is also compatible with Amazon Alexa, so you can use your voice to send texts, make calls, and more.

Lively Mobile Plus

Lively Mobile is GreatCall's medical alert emergency pendant. It is $49.99 upfront with a monthly fee ranging from $24.99–$39.99 and a $25 activation fee.  It has a proprietary design made by GreatCall that is simple to use. It has a loud integrated two-way speaker that turns on the moment you press the button for assistance. It includes 5Star urgent response, urgent care, the GreatCall Link app, fall detection, and product replacement. It also has GPS location technology and is completely waterproof, so you won't have any functionality issues if used in the shower or other wet places.

Lively Wearable2

Lively Wearable is the GreatCall medical alert device that is wearable as a wristband or necklace. It costs $49.99 upfront and comes with a $14.99 monthly fee and $25 activation fee. It includes 5Star urgent response, the GreatCall Link app, and fall detection. It includes GPS location technology and the alert device is waterproof, so it's safe to use in the shower and easy to wear. Lively Wearable2 also has up to four months of battery life, a step tracker, and daily health tips. You will need to have an Android 7.0 or iPhone iOS 11 or later to use the Lively Wearable2.

Health and Safety Packages 

GreatCall has a variety of service plans you can choose from to ensure you're getting the best plan for your needs. 

Basic Plan ($19.99)

  • 5Star Urgent Response Enjoy 24/7 service from trained health agents.
  • Brain Games — Access to fun and challenging games to keep your brain sharp. 

Preferred Plan ($24.99) — Includes everything in the Basic Plan

  • Urgent Care — Talk with certified nurses or doctors 24/7 without an appointment and receive prescriptions over the phone.
  • GreatCall Link —  Caregivers can use the GreatCall Link app to keep track of their loved one's health and safety information provided by GreatCall products. 

Ultimate Plan ($34.99) — Includes everything in the Basic Plan and the Preferred Plan

  • Fall Detection — This includes fall detection technology that contacts 5Star Urgent Response agents in the case of a fall.
  • Personal Operator — Unlimited access to live help finding addresses, phone numbers, and more.

No Contracts or Cancellation Fees

GreatCall offers cutting-edge medical monitoring services to its customers by doing away with long-term contracts, a unique option for seniors that many companies don't offer. The company also offers a proprietary medical alert device with an equipment fee of $49.99 and monthly plans starting at $19.99. This includes full service including 5Star Urgent Response, GreatCall Link, fall detection, free device replacement, and Urgent Care nurse hotline.

Many medical alert companies make customers pay extra for fall detection and don't include it in the base monthly monitoring fee. With fall detection being one of the most important capabilities to customers, it's great that GreatCall offers it at no extra cost. 

IAED Certified Agents

5Star Urgent Response Service provides easy-to-use and reliable urgent care access to IAED (International Academies of Emergency Dispatch) certified 5Star agents who will confirm the customer’s location, evaluate the situation, and call for the appropriate assistance. Trained in CPR and other emergency procedures, they can assist in any uncertain or unsafe situation, 24 hours a day. Whether a user is lost in an unfamiliar part of town, walking in a parking lot at night, or experiencing a medical issue, 5Star service can help.

Service includes:

  • 911 Support and Follow-Up — 5Star Agents can call 911 on your behalf or conference you in.
  • Your Personal Profile — The secure information you choose to provide in your personal profile empowers your 5Star Agent with critical details for faster, more personalized assistance.
  • Non-Emergency Assistance — The 5Star Agent can contact anyone on your list if you need help that doesn't require emergency services.
  • Reliable Nationwide Coverage — It functions anywhere wireless coverage is available.
  • Multilingual Support — 5Star Agents can provide translation support for over 100 languages.

Customer Service

GreatCall does not outsource its customer service to third parties. All GreatCall customer service and emergency service agents are based in the United States and receive extensive training. The award-winning, patient customer service team is there to help you with health and safety forms, product and service questions, and anything else you may need from the call center.

Fastest Call Response Time

Users get peace of mind knowing that they have fast access to help as soon as it is needed. By pressing the 5Star Urgent Response button on the medical alert device, a user gets immediate and unlimited access to IAED Certified 5Star agents who will confirm your location, evaluate your situation, and get you the help you need.

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The Bad

  • Fees
  • Equipment and Activation Fee
  • GreatCall Reviews

Fees

GreatCall functions a bit differently than its primary competitors. The company has added equipment fees as well as activation fees for its alert systems, and this even goes for the basic medical alert system. Some customers have complained about the added telecommunication fees appearing on their accounts, which are required by federal law for these kinds of service providers and customers.

However, when averaged over a year of service, Lively Mobile offers the lowest cost monthly mobile service of any other major medical alert available.

Equipment and Activation Fee

GreatCall has an equipment fee as well as an activation fee, while some medical alert providers don't require either. After you purchase your equipment, pay for activation, and cover your monthly fee, you're having to pay quite a bit more than what other competitors typically charge. 

GreatCall Reviews

The majority of GreatCall reviews are 1–2 stars, complaining the company has poor customer service, equipment issues, and expensive prices. Although GreatCall has some positive reviews as well, it's concerning that over half of the reviews are negative. We suggest looking at other top-rated medical alert companies with positive reviews before making your purchasing decision. 

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The Bottom Line

GreatCall is a versatile company that offers options for medical alert devices. Some of the company's systems offer some of the lowest prices in the industry and offer multiple medical alert devices with emergency response features like fall detection. Representatives are rigorously trained to provide you with excellent service. Some customers may be turned off by the upfront equipment fees, but the low monthly fees and not having a long-term contract can offset that price over time. If a potential customer is looking for a low-cost option that combines medical alert functionality with a smartphone device, GreatCall is a viable option. Read GreatCall reviews below to hear what customers have to say.

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Star Rating

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2.8

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451 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

32%

4 grade

10%

3 grade

5%

2 grade

7%

1 grade

46%

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Irene Jones

I started using Great Call's medical alert device because it was a really cheap option. I never have to use it - in a typical day, I go to the bathroom, I put the thing on my neck, and I wear it all day. When I get into bed, I put it on the charger, and that's it!

5 years ago

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Leroy Sheffler

Great Call's medical alert device is cheaper than what I was using before. I also don't use it very often, so it was a simple and cheap option for me. I mostly use the phone that comes with it and talk to my daughter with it. It's very cheap, and I haven't had any problems with it!

5 years ago

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Elizabeth Haff

I use the medical alert device when I'm traveling as an emergency device. I like keeping in contact with the people traveling with me or the people at home in case there is an emergency. I like the phone too, because it is cheap.

5 years ago

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G.H

I got this because I was an analyst for a kidney transplant and I wanted something better in case I was out, and I saw this product while watching the commercials on t.v. But, I don't really use it much anymore because I don't have that emergency. I still have it just in case, though.

5 years ago

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Mary Brokaw Monticello, IA

i have a lot of missed calls Out going calls works splendidly. I like the big buttons, the size of the phone.the ease of entering numbers into the phone book. Although a sort feature would be really nice.

5 years ago

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Dolores Lewandowski Hutchinson, MN

I use it all day, from the moment I get up until I go back to bed. The only thing I don't like about it is the way it flashes. When I'm wearing it and calling, I light up like a Christmas tree.

5 years ago

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Rita Guardabassio

They're very good and prompt when I push the button, someone came on right away and answered my question. The only thing I don't like is how long it takes to get the phone on.

5 years ago

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Roy Tunnell Crawfordville, FL

I've been a customer for about five years with their medical alert button. I am a frequent faller. And I'm not able to get up on my own. They always answer almost immediately. Most of the time they stay on until help arrives. Seems to depend on how busy the call center is. I've been happy with the service, for the most part. Reception and audio quality are good and clear, even the time I was in the middle of the national forest. Two issues I'd like to see improved. First, the necklace provided to wear this device around the neck has a magnetic clasp. The magnet is not strong enough and it keeps falling off. I wound up going to the crafts department of a local store and getting parachute cord, making my own necklace. Mom had the same issue with hers so I did the same for her. Second, they claim to have GPS service to help locate the patient. Either it is insufficient or the call center reps do not know how to use it. They always ask where I am. It usually isn't a problem because I am usually alert and know where I am. Once, I was in a single car accident, a rollover, in the middle of the night. I was on a rural highway which runs through the national forest. The rep asked where I was. I named the highway and said ten to fifteen miles south of this other highway. He said that wasn't good enough to dispatch rescue. He asked for a more specific location. After I said that's the best I could do, he asked for a nearby landmark. I don't know, I'm in the forest, there are a lot of trees and I'm the only car rolled over on the side of the road. It took about ten minutes for a passerby to stop and give me a nearby forest road number. GPS should have been good enough to get rescue to the area. Google maps show the forest roads and their numbers. On a positive note, the rep stayed on the line for about an hour until rescue arrived.

3 years ago

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Gary Lee Flagstaff, AZ

Best customer service I have ever received from any company, ever. Unfortunately, I couldn't keep the service because up in the mountains where I live the reception just wasn't reliable. I regretted having to cancel, as I found the company excellent to work with, Each time I called to resolve the problems, I spoke with a customer service representative who listened, who sincerely wanted to help get me the best service possible, and was unfailingly courteous and resourceful. When it became apparent it just wasn't going to work in my pocket up here in the mountains, I returned the handsets (I'd been sent a replacement to test if it might have been a problem with the equipment) and received a prompt, generous refund of the entire amount I had paid for the phones, the initiation fee, and even a prorating on the unused portion of my monthly bill. I've given Great Calls only a four star rating for two reasons: 1) many people suspect 5 star ratings to be phony (pun intended) although that is what Great Calls deserves; and 2) helpful as the customer service folks were, they sometimes contradicted each other on certain matters from one call to the next. But, that's a minor quibble, given the entirely satisfactory, if regrettable, outcome of my service.

3 years ago

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Sunni Dumfries, VA

My Smart2 was a gift in December 2018. So far I have only one minor complaint. The Call 5* button is located on the lower right end of the phone; which is an inconvenient location resulting in accidental calls made. However, after the 1st X I found out how to cancel the call. I now pay more attention when handling the device. Recently I received an email saying my account was overdue...which was incorrect. I had paid 4-5 days earlier. I responded via email and received immediate reply saying they had researched my account and apologized for the inaccurate email. I have NEVER experienced any of the issues noted above at any time. I notice the ones I read were a year old - perhaps the Smart2 was not out then? Don't know. I get great reception; battery life..[only have to recharge at night when I have been on the phone for lengthy periods of time; or have had multiple texts.I also noticed that it appears that many users had not read the entire wealth of information provided BEFORE purchasing and even not after. So far I cannot complain. yes, my monthly bill is $70+ - that is because I chose unlimited data, text, calls etc. As for ease of use...I can see where it is not for one who may have dementia [Smart2] but the Flip should be fine for making and receiving calls.

4 years ago

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J Calow Mesa, AZ

I recently got the Lively device. My problem with it was that it was very sensitive and would alert them for no reason. Was going to call them but was out shopping and didn't hear the voice so didn't cancel the call. Got home shortly thereafter and had a policeman at the door checking my well being. They had called my contact who was not at home, sent someone to where it showed me to be, tried to call my home several times and finally called the police. Because of the background noise they felt it was accidentally triggered but they did not stop there. I did call them at that point and was told to reboot it (told me how) . Have no problems with it now and was very pleasantly surprised at how thorough they were in making sure I was okay.

6 years ago

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Kathie Rio Rancho, NM

5 Star Splash Medical Alert Device Do not waste your money on the automatic fall detection package. I found out the hard way that it doesn't work as expected. I slipped on some wet grass out in the yard. It was a "legs flip up in the air, land on your butt" fall, and the device didn't recognize it as a fall. I had to push the button to get help. Yet it recognized a "quick yank it off the charger and put it around my neck" as a fall. When I called to say he automatic fall detection wasn't working and I wanted a refund, I was advised that the terms and conditions (apparently in the fine print) say that it doesn't always recognize falls. Well, if it doesn't always recognize falls, what good is the automatic fall detection plan?

7 years ago

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Bobby Shortt

Great Call's customer support is very polite and answers all your questions. The phone is just too complicated, and I think the price for it is too high at $20.

5 years ago

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William Fessel

Someone I know suggested I get Great Call's medical alert system. I wear it around my neck everyday, and customer support helps me with any information I need.

5 years ago

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Vivian Neal Rockport, IN

The phone is ok, I have some problems getting the battery to charge. I'll have it plugged in at night and it's showing that it's charging but it doesn't charge.

5 years ago

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Georgia & Howard Harmon Dundalk, MD

I like to have this around the house just in case there is a power outage, my husband and I are both handicapped so if anything goes wrong we have a way to call.

5 years ago

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Joanne Cregger

I am very satisfied with the Lively. Since I had it I have not fallen, but I once flung the lanyard on to my bed when I was dressing and Immediately I got a call, "Are you all right?" Very reassuring. The only complaint is the constantly flashing light while I am charging it at night. I like to keep it nearby, in case I need it, but have to charge it somewhere that the flashing light will not keep me awake. I hope the company is working on this because others have complained.

6 years ago

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Martin Rosenfeld

Great Call works! I have the pendant with 2-way calling and falls detection. Recently, I fell at work. Within 20 seconds, I was talking to a live voice. Fortunately, I did not need emergency assistance, but the operator stayed on the call with me until I was upright. Great Call provides an extra source of security. I know that I am not alone should I need help. I have a cell phone, but don't always have it handy. The Great Call, however, is always with me attached to the lanyard that hangs around my neck whenever I am not sleeping.

6 years ago

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joyce McClellan

I have my payment made automatically but when my card changed dates my service was stopped. Would have been good if I were notified. Their customer service is otherwise excellent. I am happy with the service but the quality of the flip phone is not all that good. Wish I had a choice. Overall I am happy with them. Once we had a widespread power outage for 6 days and they called to check on me.

6 years ago

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Ernest Doucette

This Unit Has No Contract. Service, 24/7, and costs under $20 a Month. I Test mine Monthly, and always get a Fast Response. They Know your Location Anywhere with GPS The Unit is also Waterproof so you can take it in the Shower. The Unit has an initial price of about $50 I have no Idea Why it is rated lower than many that only work in your home.

6 years ago

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Edwina Wilson Hood River, OR

Splash device will not stay charged. It has gone off while in charger and no one was around it. Pretty embarrassing when the paramedics come calling without you being aware there is an issue. On the plus side, I have experienced great customer service and they are very willing to do what they can to help with their devices. I have two of them for my aging folks and am very happy with this company.

7 years ago

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Ernest Doucette

I don't know where they get their info. But I paid $49.99 for the Waterproof unit and The activation was free. I can push the button at any time and talk to a person. If I had a problem I can hold the button 5 seconds and it dials 911. Monthly Charge was $17.99 when I got mine and has not changed, they now charge $19.99 a Month. It is Mobile, has a Comfortable Neck strap. I test once a month or so and always get an immediate answer, even when I traveled out of state. I never saw any additional fees for Phone service!

7 years ago

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JIm Dief Sarasota, FL

I like the GPS feature on the Preferred Plan. I receive a call from 5 Star Service every once in awhile because they received a Alert. I answer or they will proceed to alert 911 or what is needed. (The Alerts so far have been accidental on my part !). I am satisfied that living alone I am being well protected, and my children are all able to check on my location at any time. (Children are scattered in 3 States).

7 years ago

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K. G. Rush

I have had the stand alone deice [not the jitterbug phone] for 7-8 years. Am on my second - a splash. Have used it twice. Both times the response was immediate and intelligent - they stayed with me unill aid arrived, patched me in to 911.. The GPS feature once located my device where I had dropped it 10 miles away. My only comment is that Battery time could be a bit longer - but this is minor. I always have a charger nearby.

7 years ago

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Debra Warren Sardinia, OH

My son was looking at my new phone and accidentally pushed the button in, but they came right back on the line with him and explained it to him.

5 years ago

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Evelyn Matijega Cheboygan, MI

My daughter got me Great Call so that I could stay home by myself. It's kind of expensive, but they were right there when I called.

5 years ago

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James Grondin Rochester, MI

We got this so my husband could use this instead of a regular big phone. It's much easier for him to use because of how simple it is.

5 years ago

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James Sweeney Danville, VA

I like the size and the way it's laid out. I don't use it every day because I keep it in the house, but customer support will answer your questions.

5 years ago

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Carole Barnes

Have Great Call for 3yrs. Haven't had to use. Customer service reps are excellent. Unit is long lasting. Conveniently fits in purse or pocket. I sometimes clip it to my outer clothing when I'm walking alone and carrying things in both hands, especially at night. Makes me feel safer.

7 years ago

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mary fellini

This has been a new freedom for me. I spend a lot of time in the summer on a small boat and was happy to have the security of Great call with me. i did a test call from our mooring and received an immediate response. Price is competitive.

7 years ago

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Janice Phinney

GreatCall gives excellent service. My only negative is the on/off button on the Lively. hard to turn on.

5 years ago

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Lucille Boonville, IN

The two main things that I like are their phones and the price. We only really use it when we are gone or in the car.

5 years ago

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Lester Selby Marblehead, OH

I’ve had Great Call for several years and just replaced my 3-Year old phone with a new flip. Used 5Star several times in medical emergencies. Very pleased with the phone, the service, and the agents expertise.

6 years ago

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Johnny H Seckinger Savannah, GA

I have been using the GreatCall Mobile alert to two years. I have used the emergency call on 6 times with very satisfied service. Four calls were for help for myself and two calls were for other people.

6 years ago

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John Methratta

It is great. Reasonable rate. But nothing in this world is perfect!!!!!!!!!!!!

5 years ago

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Joyce Floyd Dover, FL

I'm impressed with them, they contact me to make sure everything is ok when the button is pressed.

5 years ago

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Sheryl Benskin Bakersfield, CA

It's easy to use the phone, and anytime I call I've gotten quick and courteous service.

5 years ago

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Anonymous

Nice and easy to use, just a little slow and camera takes very poor pictures.

5 years ago

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Teddy

It is user friendly, along with easy to read numbers, screen and text.

5 years ago

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Evelyn Jacobs Barberton, OH

It's nice to always have it on hand, but I think it's a little expensive.

5 years ago

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Austin Waldron

why the loud noise every time you put it in or take it off the charger?

5 years ago

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Glen Kirby

They're very efficient in each change of my phone and all that.

5 years ago

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bjcampagna

I have never had to use it in an emrgency.Customer service has been excellant

5 years ago

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Anonymous 25414

great company and customer service and products.

5 years ago

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Louise

They respond quickly to any problems you wish to discuss.

5 years ago

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Don Hankamer Estacada, OR

Sometimes they call too often to see what's going on.

5 years ago

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JANE TURNIPSEED

Good plan. Have had issues with device requiring replacement sooner than expected.

7 years ago