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• Paging services (index)

Paging FAQ

Who provides paging services to Medical Center affiliates?

Paging devices and paging network services are currently provided by a number of commercial vendors, but the vast majority of medical campus affiliates use USA Mobility (a.k.a., Arch Wireless, Metrocall).   

USA Mobility is the required vendor for UMMG affiliates, and is generally the preferred source based on both price and network quality. 

How do I or my department contract for paging services?  And what will it cost?

As with mobile phone services, paging services are obtained directly from vendors by departments, using a departmental P-card or a Purchase Order.  (This is in contrast to computer purchases, which are normally done by Medical IT on behalf of departments, using an IDR for charge-backs.)

For more information on current rates, contact the paging vendor or Medical Purchasing at 305-243-6607.

What kinds of paging devices are supported?

The standard UM wide-area pager is a one-way alphanumeric device, but two-way alphanumeric services can be special-ordered from USA Mobility if required.  For more information on paging devices, click here.

If you are currently have a numeric pager, you can retain it (provided you are not a UMMG affiliate).  However, you are encouraged to exchange it for an alphanumeric pager, which provides enhanced functionality.  (Your pager number will not change if you remain with the same company.) 

What kinds of pager coverage are supported?

Most UM pagers have "wide area" regional coverage (by default West Palm Beach to Key West, if under the USA Mobility contract).  National coverage options are available, but cost substantially more. 

Note that Jackson also uses "local" voice and voice/data pagers, designed for paging in or near the hospital.  These local pagers use a different paging frequency than wide-area pagers, and so cannot receive wide-area paging signals.   

If my pager breaks or I lose it, how do I get a replacement?  And what will it cost?

If you are a USA Mobility customer, you can get a replacement from Medical Purchasing (offices in the Institute Annex) or from USA Mobility directly.  Medical Purchasing has both one-way numeric and one-way alphanumeric pagers in stock.

Exchanges of pagers are generally at no charge.  Lost pagers may be subject to a replacement charge.

How do I send a page to someone on the medical campus?

Regardless of paging provider or device, if you have access to computer and a Web browser you can page UM Medical Center affiliates by using the Oncall (Amcom SmartWeb) system.

If you only have access to a telephone, you can use the UM Call Center at 305-243-1000 to have an operator send a page to a UM affiliate.  To page a Jackson Health System affiliate, use the Jackson call center at 305-585-5400.

Where can I get more information?

If you have any questions regarding pagers or paging services,  please contact the UM Call Center at 305-243-1000.