Medical devices affected by 3G network closure

Some medical device equipment , as well as products such as personal medical alarms could be affected as mobile network operators prepare to switch off their 3G networks.

3G has been in use since the early 2000s but is being decommissioned in place of the advanced 4G and 5G networks.

Telstra and Optus will switch off their third-generation mobile networks from 28 October 2024, while TPG Telecom/Vodafone already did so at the start of 2024.

For consumers

If you use a device and are unsure if it currently uses the 3G network, contact the sponsor, supplier, or place of purchase.

For manufacturers and suppliers

Devices relying on the 3G network will no longer be able to send or receive data, texts, make calls, or even contact triple-0 in an emergency.

If you manufacture or supply medical devices that communicate via 3G you are encouraged to notify customers.

This change also affects some 4G products that still rely on 3G services to make emergency calls.

For patient or user communication, consider any language barriers and risk factors, such as those located in rural and regional areas, or those receiving care arrangements.