Overview
In September 2006 the Federal Communications Commission announced that it would provide funding on a competitive basis for pilot programs in states to enhance public and non-profit health care providers’ access to advanced telecommunications and information services. The Michigan Public Health Institute submitted Michigan’s proposal to the FCC.
Michigan’s project will bring high speed broadband internet access to public hospitals, primary care clinics and other providers that serve critical populations in rural and tribal areas. This funding will improve the quality of care in rural areas while at the same time saving rural residents substantial travel.
"It is my vision to see every healthcare facility in the nation connected to each other with broadband. This is especially important in rural areas of the nation that may lack the breadth of medical expertise available in urban areas. To make such connectivity a reality, we need to continue to encourage the deployment of broadband facilities that connect networks of rural and non-rural public and not-for-profit healthcare providers within a state or region – as well as connect such state-wide or regional healthcare networks to each other across the nation."
FCC Chairman Kevin J. Martin
Speach to American Health
Information Community, 11/13/07
