Our ability to connect through high-speed Internet access—referred to generically as “broadband”—is improving our lives in many ways—helping us share information and images, research and apply for jobs, stay in touch with loved ones, and access entertainment and news. Broadband saves consumers time and money, increases productivity in the economy, and reduces impacts on the environment. And, now, broadband will even help save lives and improve healthcare in California.
Clinics and hospitals in rural communities and underserved urban neighborhoods will be connected through the California Telehealth Network (CTN) to major medical centers, trauma facilities and specialty care and, thus, able to access health and medical expertise remotely. This will both expand access to critical services and improve quality of healthcare. And, it has the potential to help control costs.