Video Conferencing is making its way in to schools not only with distance learning, but also with the use of telehealth solutions. Each year, the U.S. federal government awards billions of dollars in grant funding to schools, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and other public entities to improve operations and delivery of services to our communities.
Starting this month some schools in Michigan will have access to healthcare without having to send students to the doctor’s office. Students aged 12 to 21 will have the opportunity to take advantage of this telehealth program. The Community Health Center of Branch County (CHC) received a State of Michigan grant in 2013. The grant has allowed CHC to plan and implement telehealth clinics in Coldwater and Bronson.
The health centers are located in Coldwater High School and Bronson Junior/Senior High School. They will provide primary healthcare services via telehealth equipment.The clinics will collaborate with, and are not meant to replace, the student’s family physician. The facilities will provide primary care services for acute illnesses and minor injuries such as ear infections, rash, strep throat and influenza. They will also provide preventative care such as immunizations. Parental consent must be specified before any student is seen and cared for, but no student will be denied services. Insurance can be billed for the services in the clinic. Student’s that are uninsured, insurance enrollment assistance can be provided.
A registered nurse will examine the student using the telehealth equipment to collaborate with the doctor’s office. The equipment will convey the information and video to the physician or physician assistant. The physician or PA will then make a diagnosis and can prescribe and send in a prescription to the pharmacy if needed.
Grant and funding programs such as E-Rate, the USDA RUS Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG), and funds from the Affordable Care Act (ACA) are a few of the top programs that will fund technology projects. The Solutionz Grant Program Services specialists can collaborate with applicants to help them navigate the maze of funding. Drive success with a team that has extensive experience helping public entities secure funding and implement critical visual communications solutions for vital public and community programs and services.
To learn more or sign up for grant assistance, contact us at solutionzgps@solutionzinc.com.
