Net neutrality rules, which were established in 2015, “[prohibit] broadband providers from elevating one kind of content over another,” according to The New York Times. This predictable infrastructure is the same principle telemedicine relies on, according to the blog post authors.
“For telemedicine to be scalable and positively impact cost and outcomes, there must be a predictable infrastructure connecting patients, care providers and technology,” they wrote. “What happens to telehealth if Netflix traffic is preferred above medical applications? Could Internet Service Providers (ISPs) offer better services for one hospital system than another, helping them take over telehealth in a region?”
The authors encouraged the FCC to consider these concerns, which might particularly affect underserved Americans. “We urge the FCC to investigate the unintended consequences of policy changes to ensure that they do not amplify issues of health disparities in lower income and rural populations,” they concluded.
Click here to view the full article.
More articles on telehealth:
Texas Gov. signs telemedicine bill: 5 things to know
Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital rolls out emergency pediatric telemedicine
4 questions with Latoya Thomas, director of the ATA State Policy Resource Center
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
