nbn Medical Alarm Register set to close in June
If you have an alarm, you should make sure it remains properly connected.
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People who still use medical alarms connected to the copper phone network are being encouraged to contact the nbn before its medical alarm register closes to new registrants on 30 June.
The register, which is closing after nine years, helps customers of phone and internet providers check that their medical alarm will still work after it is migrated to the nbn network.
The register has supported around 180,000 consumers, many of whom are medically vulnerable and/or older Australians.
nbn Executive Manager for Health, Robert Hardie, said, “We are encouraging all users of medical alarms to register via nbn’s Medical Alarm Register before the end of the month on 30 June.”
Mr Hardie said the aim was to “help the small number of Australians in the nbn fixed-line footprint who still need to migrate their medical alarm, phone and internet services to the nbn network”.
He added, “Switching to the nbn network is not automatic and we recommend those users move to the network, or an alternative solution, before their copper network disconnection date to avoid losing connectivity which might leave them vulnerable in an emergency.”
Mr Hardie said that while the register would be closed on 30 June, customers would still be assisted after that date.
“Registration is optional and any further support requests after 30 June can be managed directly via a customer’s alarm supplier or phone and internet provider,” he said.
“nbn will advise you and your internet provider of any upcoming disconnection dates with at least 18 months’ notice. If you are already connected to the nbn network or an alternative network and your medical alarm is working, no action is required.”
If you are unsure, the nbn recommends that you submit your details to the register via the website or by calling 1800 227 300.
nbn’s Unmonitored Medical Alarm Upgrade Offer will also close to new registrants on 20 June after four years of enabling Australians to access subsidised unmonitored medical alarm devices.
Under the offer, eligible people can obtain an upgraded unmonitored medical alarm at a discounted price of up to 80% off the normal price, to a maximum of $300 off, from participating alarm suppliers.
An unmonitored medical alarm calls a family member, friend, neighbour or 000 when triggered. It differs from a monitored alarm, which calls a 24/7 alarm-monitoring centre that may have a monthly fee, or a locally monitored alarm, which calls the staff at an aged care or retirement facility.
To check if you, your family member or someone you care for is eligible for the Unmonitored Medical Alarm Upgrade Offer, or to find out more about the offer, visit the nbn website or call 1800 003 095.
National Seniors Australia Chief Advocate, Ian Henschke, said: “Medical alarms can save lives, so it’s important to make sure you’re protected by remaining connected with these imminent changes.
“Contact nbn by visiting nbn.com.au/medicalalarm or call 1800 227 300.”
