LS Networks Powers Oregon Telemedicine Network, GOBHI

Greater Oregon Behavioral Health Inc. (GOBHI) has launched telemedicine videoconferencing in 16 rural communities across Oregon, powered by the LS Networks fiber-optic broadband network.

“Rather than have someone drive three hours for a consultation in the city, it’s more cost effective to have that patient videoconference,” said Laurence Colman, Chief Medical Officer at GOBHI. “Telemedicine increases our access and reach in rural areas, and helps us offer specialized care to the people and communities that need it most.”

With help from the high-speed fiber-optic connectivity of LS Networks, GOBHI was able to apply for and receive a $436,506 Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Program. The grant money funds the 2014–2017 project, which will connect underserved rural patients with behavioral health providers.

“GOBHI’s mission is critical and it’s one that saves lives,” said Bryan Adams, Director of Sales and Marketing at LS Networks. “Because it is engineered for high quality and reliability, LS Networks provides a stable platform for GOBHI to launch its game-changing application.”