Further, the expanded networks can be used as platforms to support other I.T. initiatives, such as electronic health records and regional health information organizations. The program is a significant expansion of the federal government’s Universal Service Fund that subsidizes telecommunications services to rural health care providers. The program will enable creation of broadband telehealth networks in 42 states and three U.S. territories to serve rural and underserved communities, FCC chair Kevin Martin recently testified before the American Health Information Community, a federal advisory group.
An FCC order in September 2006 laid out the program and guidelines for applicants. More than 80 network initiatives applied, and a large majority of them will receive funding, according to a FCC spokesperson. Under a three-year pilot program, these initiatives will receive funds for up to 85% of the cost of deploying a dedicated broadband network and up to 85% of the broadband connectivity costs.
Participants will be “strongly encouraged” to coordinate use of their networks with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to conduct biosurveillance activities.
Success of the pilot program will be measured before a decision is made on whether to expand the subsidies to additional applicants. More information is available at fcc.gov.
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