The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved its eighth wave of COVID-19 telehealth program applications, granting $68.22 million to healthcare providers nationwide. The COVID-19 Telehealth Program is part of the CARES Act and encourages hospitals and healthcare centers to apply for up to $1 million to support telehealth expansion amid the pandemic. The FCC approved seven previous batches of applicants, and it will continue accepting applications on a rolling basis.
Fifty-three healthcare providers were awarded funding on May 28, including 2 in Wisconsin. Clark County Rehabilitation and Living Center in Owen received funds for tablets and video telehealth equipment to offer remote diagnostic and psychiatric services to patients. Northlakes Community Clinic in Iron River received funds for connected devices and a telehealth kiosk to provide rural residents in northern Wisconsin with virtual primary care services.