100-gig Broadband Launches Telemedicine Beyond the Drawing Board

A recent survey of economic development pros reveals that 43% believe broadband-driven telemedicine will have a significant impact on local economies. Maybe it’s time communities move that needle well north of 50%.

The Illinois Medical District in Chicago is betting a 100-gig network covering 560 acres and digitally integrating over 40 medical facilities will reduce costs, score major research projects and attract new businesses. District Executive Director Warren Ribley explains the details of this ambitious project, and why other communities should consider something similar. Fujitsu Network Communications is a key private-sector partner in this project.

Though many people mistakenly assume large metropolitan areas to be the land of broadband abundance, Ribley describes the area as currently “a broadband desert.” Telemedicine, when powered by Internet at light speed, promises to be an economic accelerant to lift up urban and rural communities that have vision, creatively and seriously good planning.