The Connected Care Pilot Program, backed by a significant $100 million investment from the Universal Service Fund (USF), is a groundbreaking initiative designed to propel the adoption of connected care services across the nation. Spearheaded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), this three-year pilot program aims to bridge the gap in healthcare access by subsidizing broadband connectivity and essential network resources for eligible healthcare providers.
This program is not about funding individual devices or medical equipment directly for patients. Instead, the connected care pilot program focuses on providing crucial financial support to healthcare organizations. Successful applicants to the program receive funding to cover 85% of the eligible costs associated with broadband, network equipment, and information services. These resources are vital for delivering connected care services, which encompass telehealth, remote patient monitoring, and other digital health solutions. By alleviating the financial burdens of infrastructure and connectivity, the connected care pilot program empowers healthcare providers to extend their reach and enhance patient care, particularly for vulnerable and underserved populations.
The application window for this initial phase of the connected care pilot program is now closed, having ended on December 7, 2020. During the application period, which commenced on November 6, 2020, the FCC utilized an online application system managed by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC). While new applications are no longer being accepted for this round, the impact of the program is already being felt.
As of October 2021, the FCC announced the selection of 93 pilot projects spanning 35 states and the District of Columbia. These projects are collectively receiving over $69 million in funding, demonstrating the significant reach and impact of the connected care pilot program. This investment is set to facilitate a wide range of connected care services, bringing the benefits of remote healthcare to communities across the country. For those interested in learning more about the selected projects, detailed lists are available in both PDF and Excel formats, providing transparency and insights into the program’s deployment. Furthermore, comprehensive documentation, including all applications submitted to the connected care pilot program, are publicly accessible through the FCC’s Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS) under Docket No. WC 18-213.
For stakeholders seeking to stay informed about future developments and announcements related to connected care initiatives, joining the connected care pilot program email list is recommended. This ensures direct updates from the FCC as the program evolves and potentially expands in the future. Inquiries regarding the program can be directed to the dedicated email address: [email protected].
The connected care pilot program represents a significant step forward in leveraging technology to transform healthcare delivery. By strategically investing in connectivity and infrastructure, the program paves the way for a more accessible, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare system.
