Expanding access to telehealth on an island
Addressing technology barriers can increase access to care using telehealth.
Health care access on an island can be challenging. Patients often need to travel far to see their providers. For people living on the smaller islands, they may need to take a ferry to the main island to receive services. Telehealth can help increase access to care.
Migrant Health Center Western Region, Inc. (MHC) and its partners provide coordinated medical, dental, and behavioral health services. MHC asked patients and providers what challenges they face. Those interviewed said that technology is a big barrier to health care.
MHC addressed the issue by setting up antennas. These were installed near the town square in several communities. The satellite antennas allow patients to access the internet. This lets them use telehealth from private places near the town square. MHC bought carts for communities that do not have an antenna. The carts are equipped with video cameras, screens, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. They can also collect health information, like blood pressure, weight, and temperature. Using the carts, MHC can provide telehealth care in rural communities with limited or no broadband.
The satellite antennas allow patients to access the internet. This lets them use telehealth from private places near the town square.
Using the carts, MHC can provide telehealth care in rural communities with limited or no broadband.
MHC is measuring if the satellite antennas and carts have increased health care access. They are studying if these technology tools have increased the number of patients using telehealth. They are also looking to see if access through telehealth improves health outcomes.