CHC has the people, experience and processes for reducing healthcare providers’ telecom costs.
Internet and telecommunications services are essential for rural and community hospitals to offer the highest quality of medical care to their respective areas. However, research shows that an estimated 25-30% of rural Americans don’t have access to broadband Internet. To further complicate things, rural healthcare providers typically must pay more for these services compared to metro areas.
The FCC’s Universal Services Administrative Company (USAC) is a federal program created to address these issues. It offers $10 billion in annual funding broken down into four programs which includes rural healthcare organizations. We use our many years of exceptionally deep experience in and thorough understanding of USAC’s complex requirements to help our clients get their fair share of this funding.
Qualifying for USAC funds can be an arduous process. The timeline to plan, apply and petition for obtaining broadband connectivity funding can take months or even years. Hospitals need to be planning and applying to USAC at least 9 to 12 months in advance of when they need the resources. For example, this year applications were due in May, 2023 but funds may not be distributed until late 2024.
Our Services Include:
Turnkey Solution: CHC Consulting takes charge of Funding Process Management including strategy, eligibility and application, as well as the RFP, bidding and negotiation processes. We also help with documentation to USAC and ongoing monitoring and reapplication to USAC in future years.
Program Evaluation and Planning: We analyze your hospital’s current telecommunications services and costs. Based on that information, we make recommendations to improve your service and reduce your cost.
Training and Support: Onsite or web-based support and training options for your staff.
HCF Consortium Setup: CHC Consulting helps qualified healthcare providers establish their own consortium and obtain funding.
USAC Program Denial Appeal Support: CHC Consulting can jump in and work on your behalf to adjudicate denied funding requests.