March 16, 2017–FCC Chairman Ajit Pai today announced the continuation of the Connect2HealthFCC Task Force established by former Chairman Tom Wheeler in 2014.  Commissioner Mignon L. Clyburn will continue to lead the effort, Chairman Pai said. “I look forward to working closely with her on this initiative, which aims to address an increasingly important aspect of digital empowerment,” the Chairman said. He made the announcement in the context of telehealth demonstrations he saw today at the Cleveland Clinic on the second leg of his four-city tour of communities that have “gone through tough times” (TRDaily, March 15).  “I was impressed by the innovative work they are doing in telehealth, particularly in the area of life-saving tele-stroke services.  With technology-based solutions like this, health care providers can deliver high-quality care to patients anywhere,” he said.

The visit to the clinic “highlighted the important role of the FCC in bridging the broadband-enabled health gap,” he added.

In a statement, Commissioner Clyburn said, “Over the past three years, the Connect2HealthFCC Task Force has been on the cutting edge of examining the intersection of broadband, advanced technology and health. This is why I am so thrilled that Chairman Pai has affirmed his commitment to its continuation. “The task force has and will continue to ensure that the Commission is equipped with the data and information it needs to understand the rapidly evolving landscape for broadband-enabled healthcare. Armed with this knowledge, we can narrow the digital and opportunities divide to ensure much needed health and wellness solutions reach all Americans.” The Connect2Health Task Force is not an advisory committee subject to the Federal Advisory Committee Act. – Lynn Stanton, lynn.stanton@wolterskluwer.com

Courtesy TRDaily