Lifeline® Frequently Asked Questions

What is Lifeline®?

Lifeline® is a Personal Emergency Response service (sponsored by Guthrie Home Health which is part of the Guthrie Healthcare System) that allows an individual (or a couple) to remain in their own home, while feeling the security of knowing that help is only the touch of a button away. The buttons can be worn in the shower or anywhere else in the home and the base installs on a regular telephone line. All units are voice capable, which means that someone from the Communication Center can talk directly to you if the button is activated. "Sip and puff" and "pillow" contacts are also available for person’s unable to push a button. Additionally, any phone call to the client can be answered by pushing their help button, making their standard telephone a speaker phone.

Where is Lifeline® service available?

Guthrie sponsored Lifeline® services are available throughout the Pennsylvania counties of Bradford, Sullivan, Susquehanna and Tioga as well as the New York counties of Tioga, Chemung, Steuben and Broome.

Who is Lifeline® appropriate for?

As mentioned above, Lifeline® services are appropriate for individuals who would like to remain independent in their own home but would like the comfort of knowing that help is just a touch away. It is appropriate for elderly clients and couples as well as younger, physically challenged clients. Lifeline® may be a permanent arrangement or it could be a temporary arrangement for a couple of months, weeks or even days. There are many instances where Lifeline® could be an appropriate service.

How does the Lifeline® service work?

When the signal is activated, a call is received by the Communication Center at Robert Packer Hospital.  In fact, Guthrie is the only local monitoring service available in our region. Other services of this nature are often monitored at centers located hundreds of miles from our area. Our Communications Technician will respond through the unit to determine whether or not the call was intended. If not, the unit is reset. If the Technician is unable to get a response from the Client’s home, a Responder (identified during the application process) is contacted. This person will go to the home and check on the client. If it is not possible to contact one of several identified "Responders", Emergency Services will be notified.

How much does it cost?

Installation and rates are:

• installation - $35
• service (per month) - $26

How do we apply?

You can click here or call Guthrie Home Health directly (800-327-0736) and we will complete an application over the phone.