Rural Health
News by Topic: Broadband
Apr 10, 2024 - Notice of final rule from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopting a Report and Order amending existing rules and requirements governing the management and administration of the Universal Service Fund (USF) high-cost program. Changes will streamline processes, align timelines, and refine certain rules to more precisely address specific situations experienced by carriers. This rule is effective May 10, 2024, except for amendments to sections 36.4 (amendatory instruction 2), 54.205 (amendatory instruction 7), 54.313 (amendatory instruction 10), 54.314 (amendatory instruction 11), 54.316 (amendatory instruction 13), 54.903 (amendatory instruction 18), and 54.1306 (amendatory instruction 22), which are delayed indefinitely.
Source: Federal Register
Apr 4, 2024 - Highlights Montana's Digital Opportunity Plan that aims to close digital gaps for rural residents, older adults, veterans, tribal members, and more. Discusses funding needs and collaboration with healthcare providers and community organizations.
Source: KTVH
Apr 4, 2024 - Discusses mortality disparities for rural and urban communities across Northeast Ohio and potential reasons including healthcare access, workforce shortages, limited transportation options, and inadequate broadband.
Source: Ideastream Public Media
Apr 2, 2024 - Offers an update to Congress on the Affordable Connectivity Program funding needs. Notes that ending the program will have greater impact on specific groups of people including rural and tribal residents. April is the last month of full funding for the program.
Source: Federal Communications Commission
FCC: Privacy Act of 1974; Matching Program
Federal Register
Apr 2, 2024 - Notice from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeking comment on a new computer matching program between the FCC, the Universal Service Administrative Company, and the Connecticut Department of Social Services to verify the eligibility of applicants and subscribers to Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). These programs are designed to facilitate and support access to affordable broadband services for low-income consumers and families. Comments are due by May 2, 2024.
Source: Federal Register
Mar 27, 2024 - Request for comments on the draft 2024-2030 Federal Health IT Strategic Plan. The Plan includes goals for promoting health and wellness, enhancing the delivery and experience of healthcare, accelerate research and innovation, and connecting health systems with health data. Objectives for achieving those goals include expanding broadband and technology access and research infrastructure for the benefit of rural residents among others. Comments can be made until May 28th.
Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Mar 26, 2024 - Describes the impact of increased internet access on a tribal reservation in Arizona. Training to increase digital literacy and safety on the internet is being offered. Increased access is also expected to improve economic opportunities and preserve culture such as language.
Source: Cronkite News
Mar 14, 2024 - Following an annual assessment of telecommunications capability, the Federal Communications Commission has raised the benchmark for broadband download and upload speeds. Notes that broadband deployment in rural and tribal areas is not happening in a reasonable timeframe.
Source: Federal Communications Commission
Mar 13, 2024 - Highlights the history of telehealth use by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Describes how access to specialists, behavioral healthcare, and prescription medication in particular has been improved by telehealth. Discusses how rural healthcare access is managed for veterans without reliable internet access.
Source: Cronkite News
Mar 12, 2024 - Announces $58 million in funding for tribal communities in Nevada, South Dakota, and Oklahoma. Funding will improve water infrastructure and high-speed internet.
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture