Michigan State University researchers suggest improved broadband high-speed internet access in rural areas could support better care for patients in medically underserved areas.
In a recent position statement published by the Society of Behavioral Medicine, Sabrina Ford and Kelly Hirko, in the College of Human Medicine, claim telemedicine, which requires high-speed internet access, would promote better communications between physicians and patients. It would also allow doctors in rural areas to share images with specialists elsewhere and help rural patients comply with prevention and treatment advice from their doctors.