FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the alarm work?

The alarm consists of a base unit and a pendant. The base unit plugs into the phone and power. When the pendant is activated, it dials directly through to the Ambulance service. You will receive a phone call just to make sure the pendant wasn't pushed by mistake, but if there is no reply an ambulance will be dispatched immediately. See a full explanation on how the Freedom Medical Alarm works.

Where does my alarm work?

The alarm will work anywhere in your house and on your property. At the time of installation, one of our service consultants will check and test the pendant to make sure it works at your back fence or clothes line and to your front gate.

How much will the alarm cost?

The rental for the Medical Alarm is $19.95 per week. This includes installation, the lease of the equipment and the monitoring and maintenance of the alarm. We prefer our clients to pay fortnightly by automatic payment but other payment options are available.

Can I get assistance from WINZ for my medical alarm?

Freedom Medical Alarms is a Work and Income NZ approved supplier therefore our medical alarms can be funded through the Disability Allowance (subject to meeting WINZ criteria). For more information about assistance from Work and Income New Zealand you can phone 0800 559 009.

Who do you contact when my alarm is activated?

If you are transported to hospital, your nominated contact person will be phoned to let them know.

What happens if I go into hospital or away on holiday?

If you go away, we appreciate a phone call to let us know, so we can put a note on your file. If you are unsure when you will be returning it is handy if you can give us a call when you return.

Is my pendant waterproof?

Your pendant is waterproof and can be worn in the shower; however, we don't recommend it be worn in the bath or that it is fully submerged.

How will the paramedics get to me if the door is locked?

There are two options for keys. You can either hide a key on your property and instructions on how to find your key will be on your file. These instructions are kept completely confidential and will be given to the paramedic responding to your call.

The other option is to purchase a key safe from us at a one off cost of $95.00. This includes GST and our rep will install it for you free of charge. The key safe has a PIN code of your choice which is then on your file and given to the paramedic responding to your call.

If you would like to purchase a key safe but do not have a medical alarm the cost is $110.00 (inc GST) and an additional $25.00 if you wish for us to install the key safe for you.

Can I still use the internet while the alarm is connected?

If you have a computer and use the internet the alarm will not be affected. You can be using the internet and activate your alarm and it will still dial through to the ambulance service.

What happens if the battery runs flat?

The batteries in the pendant are designed to last for about two years. When they begin to run flat a signal is sent to us and we send out a representative to change the battery. The base unit has the added assurance of a back-up battery in case of mains power failure.

How do I know my alarm is working?

The alarm unit tests itself every night. You will not hear anything. The alarm dials through a test to our monitoring centre and if there are any problems we will be in touch in the morning. Your pendant is tested every 175 days. You will be phoned and asked to perform a self-test.

What happens if I lose my pendant or something breaks?

You can simply give us a call and let us know, a service consultant will then be in touch to arrange a time to come and replace your pendant free of charge.

Do I get charged for an ambulance call out?

In the Wellington region there is no charge for ambulance call outs. In other regions, if you do receive a bill simply send it to us and we will arrange prompt payment for you.

What happens if I move to a rest home or no longer require my alarm?

We require one months notice before cancelling your alarm.

Can someone else living in the same house also have a pendant?

Yes, there is no extra charge as the pendant runs off of the same base unit.

Can I buy a key safe on its own?

You can, it costs $110 for the unit and $25 for our representative to come and install it for you.

Does Freedom Medical Alarms charge in advance or in arrears?

Freedom charges in advance for manual invoices and in arrears for automatic payment's (AP's).