The Telecommunications Industry Association has shown support for the Federal Communications Commission's efforts in reforming its universal service healthcare support mechanism but strongly urges the FCC to implement flexible broadband programs for healthcare providers in rural communities, according to a TIA news release.
The FCC created two programs, the Healthcare Infrastructure Program and the Health Broadband Services Program, which aim to provide broadband connectivity for healthcare providers in unserved or underserved communities. In response to this, TIA has voiced support for the newly formed programs but also urged the FCC to focus on flexibility and practicality when deploying applications and technologies under the programs. It has recommended that funding decisions for the programs be made based on the unique technical needs of rural communities.
Read the TIA news release about the FCC’s broadband programs for rural healthcare providers.
Read other coverage about health information technology in rural communities:
- HHS to Distribute $20M in Technical Support to Rural Hospitals, Critical Access Facilities
- Three Major Challenges to Rural Hospitals Over the Next Decade