Broadband Gaps in the Healthcare Sector

As the Federal Communications Commission works on the National Broadband Plan as it relates to health care, the FCC has identified important connectivity gaps within healthcare. Many hospitals lack the fiber connections required for 100 mbps broadband which enables a range of applications such as Electronic Health Records, Diagnostic imaging and Tele-radiology. Telemedicine usage is hindered by state physician licensure and credentialing rules. Finally, if broadband is going to further national priorities, incentives need to be aligned. A good example is that of reimbursement policy for telemedicine.