FCC Commits More Funds To Connect Rural Health Providers
The FCC is aiming to close the digital divide in healthcare with an ambitious retooling of the Rural Health Care Support Mechanism, one of four programs funded by the Universal Service Fund.
The reforms are centered on covering the high cost associated with building out lines and providing service to rural health centers and broadening the definition of eligible facilities to include community health clinics and nursing care centers.
According to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski:
To achieve the goals of a 21st century health care system, including telemedicine and utilizing electronic medical records, to deliver better health care more broadly, and to lower the costs of our medical system, we need to ensure that hospitals and clinics have the technology tools and connectivity they need.
The Communications Workers of America applauds the FCC's proposal, which will improve patient care, spur investment in broadband networks and create new infrastructure and health IT jobs across America.
To read our Fact Sheet on the role of broadband Internet in expanding access and increasing the quality of health care, click here.
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