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Rural Health Information Hub

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Rural Health
News by Topic: Technology for health and human services

May 28, 2020 - The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is seeking public comment to inform the development of an implementation plan for the National Strategy to Secure 5G. Comments are due by June 18, 2020.
Source: Federal Register
May 26, 2020 - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a proposed rule to retarget universal service funding for mobile broadband and voice in the high-cost program to support the deployment of 5G services by establishing the 5G Fund for rural America. Comments on the proposed rule and implementation of the 5G Fund are due by June 25, 2020.
Source: Federal Register
May 21, 2020 - Analyzes response data from the Census Bureau, finds that more half of rural households have responded to the 2020 Census, but the rate is still below the national average. Discusses how COVID-19 and limited access to internet service hinders Census responses in rural areas.
Source: Housing Assistance Council
May 21, 2020 - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced it is partnering with the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to promote the use of the $50 million in CARES Act funding to help address the digital divide during the COVID-19 pandemic. Funding was distributed to states and territories through State Library Administrative Agencies (SLAAs) and through grants to libraries and museums.
Source: Federal Communications Commission
May 19, 2020 - During the coronavirus pandemic, rural libraries continued to serve their communities by offering free Wi-Fi, providing laptops to patrons outside the closed buildings, and offering virtual storytimes online. As some counties reopen, libraries are taking measures to keep staff members and the public safe.
Source: The Daily Yonder
May 18, 2020 - Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai shared draft procedures for the $16 billion Phase I Rural Digital Opportunity Fund auction, which aims to expand broadband service across unserved areas of rural America. The FCC will vote on the final procedures on June 9, 2020.
Source: Federal Communications Commission
May 14, 2020 - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorized $7.5 million in funding over ten years to expand rural broadband across seven states. This funding is the 12th wave of support from the Connect American Fund Phase II auction and will benefit 3,100 unserved rural homes and businesses.
Source: Federal Communications Commission
May 13, 2020 - The Federal Communications Commission will hold its June 10, 2020 meeting via teleconference and WebEx. Questions arising during the meeting should be sent to CSRIC@fcc.gov and will be answered at a later date.
Source: Federal Register
May 10, 2020 - The COVID-19 pandemic has made internet access necessary to those working and learning from home. Highlights county efforts to increase access to sufficient broadband in rural areas across the country, including strategies such as setting up Wi-Fi hotspots in parking lots, school and transit buses, county-owned facilities, and other public spaces.
Source: National Association of Counties
May 7, 2020 - Expanded access to telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic has made it easier for patients in rural areas to receive necessary care, but the urban-rural broadband divide poses separate challenges. Rural health advocates hope the telehealth flexibilities will become permanent to help providers continue to connect with their patients.
Source: U.S. News & World Report