Abstract: A private telephone system and method to integrate a local paging system is disclosed which does not require an outside service provider, and at the same time, allows for ample time to effectively pick up calls which are for those away from their normal work station. The basic components of the system are a PBX/KSU switch, a plurality of telephone extension sets, a voice mail system, a local RF transmitter, and a plurality of local area pagers. The RF transmitter of low power output (2 or 5 watt) is connected upon receiving a set of parameters from the voice mail system. The voice mail system activates only that pager (or pagers) designated to the mailbox requested based upon configuration data (an individual or group of individuals). The system and method may provide for “immediate” activation of the pager without caller intervention, or “delayed” activation of the pager which requires caller intervention.