Expanded telehealth access coming to Klamath residents

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The following is a press release from Cascade Health Alliance

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - Cascade Health Alliance members who are Sky Lakes Medical Center patients will get greater access to convenient care through a new grant from the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) pilot telehealth access program.

This initiative provides up to $100 million in Universal Service Funds to help eligible healthcare providers cover the costs of providing connected care services. Sky Lakes Medical Center was awarded nearly $194,000 for telehealth care initiatives. The total project budget will be $227,850.

Funds for the project will be used to help treat chronically ill patients, those with long-term conditions, high-risk pregnancies, mental health conditions and opioid dependency. Key benefactors of these services are patients with low-income in rural and in underserved areas.

“It is important that we help our members who may not be able to afford broadband or high-speed internet,” says Tayo Akins, CEO, Cascade Health Alliance. “Digital divide propels other leading social determinants of health drivers, ultimately having an impact on patient wellness and equity. We believe in reducing barriers to care,” Akins added. If someone has difficulty getting to Sky Lakes or inadequate internet access, funds from these programs will ensure help gets to them.”

Bridging the so-called digital divide for rural residents is more critical now than ever before, said Sky Lakes President and Chief Executive Officer Paul Stewart. “Expanding healthcare access by using technologies that are broadband-enabled means patients can receive high-quality healthcare wherever they live,” he said. “Bringing digitally connected care services to traditionally underserved communities will lead to better health. Sky Lakes is proud to partner with Cascade Health Alliance and excited to be able to provide these services to its members using the FCC grant.” 

Whether an isolated senior or a disabled youth, Sky Lakes seeks to ensure digital access to local healthcare. Video visits with healthcare providers at Sky Lakes or other local providers are a crucial connection to help people stay well. Telemedicine is also a way to stay connected to patients who don’t have access to public transportation.