U.S. program to bring internet access to low-income people is running out of money. Health care will suffer

A program to bring internet access to low-income people is running out of money. Health care will suffer The digital divide perpetuates health inequalities and reinforces existing inequities. Torie Bosch STAT

... health care and internet access are now inseparable. Those without reliable access to the internet find themselves facing major barriers to accessing telehealth services, patient portals, videoconferencing, and other health care technologies that have become vital in modern medicine. This digital divide perpetuates health inequalities and reinforces existing inequities.

...the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law established the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) in 2021 to tackle the digital divide, which disproportionately affects older, rural, and ethnic minority communities.

...But the program is set to expire once its allocated funds are exhausted, which is expected to happen by mid-2024. If that happens, it could impede progress in closing the digital divide and hinder access to essential services, including health care. Telehealth services hold particular importance for marginalized communities, such as people of color and patients with chronic illnesses. 

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