Boston, MA – December 18, 2023 Link Health, a leading healthcare connectivity organization, proudly announces its selection as a recipient of the 2023 Massachusetts Broadband Institute (MBI) grant that will allow it to launch a statewide healthcare based ACP enrollment campaign. The Healey-Driscoll Administration, in collaboration with MBI, has awarded $20 million in new grants through the state’s Digital Equity Partnerships Program, and Link Health is set to play a crucial role in addressing the digital divide in healthcare.
“We are excited to partner with Community Care Cooperative and Link Health to bring internet access through our Telehealth Navigator Program work under the FQHC Telehealth Consortium, which helps bridge the digital divide and health inequities for our health center patients,” said Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers Health Informatics Vice President Susan Adams, PMP. “We are grateful to be working alongside MBI and the Healey-Driscoll administration. These navigators will empower patients to ensure they are not left behind in the shift towards a hybrid model of care environments.”
The grant, a testament to Link Health’s impactful work, comes at a pivotal time as the organization continues its mission to bridge the gap in healthcare by connecting patients to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and eliminating the digital divide statewide. The funding will empower Link Health to expand its efforts across the state and make healthcare access more inclusive and equitable.
Link Health is committed to revolutionizing healthcare access by leveraging connectivity solutions. The organization’s work has garnered attention from prestigious organizations such as the Boston Globe, the Aspen Institute, NBC, and the New England Journal of Medicine.
The Massachusetts Broadband Institute grant will further amplify Link Health’s impact on communities in Boston and beyond. The Digital Equity Partnerships Program aligns seamlessly with Link Health’s core mission of addressing the digital and health equity gaps, as the vision of Dr. Alister Martin, Emergency Room physician, Harvard Professor, and Founder of Link Health. “This grant not only validates the importance of our work but also provides us with the resources to create a lasting impact in Massachusetts and beyond which will provide a model for how other states can follow.”
About Link Health
Based in Boston, Link Health is on a mission to revolutionize healthcare access by addressing the digital divide and connecting patients to the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). With an unwavering commitment to improving healthcare access for all, Link Health harnesses the power of connectivity to create a more equitable future.
Digital divide in Healthcare: A critical issue
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated telehealth adoption, revealing broadband internet access’s critical role. However, 15–24% of Americans still lack broadband internet connection, hindering their access to essential healthcare services. The ACP, created under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, addresses this issue by subsidizing lower-income households.
Link Health’s mission and impact
Link Health’s mission is clear: leverage the healthcare sector to connect patients to the ACP and close the digital divide comprehensively. The organization has partnered with hospitals, clinics, and community health centers, helping over 1,000 individuals receive their $30 monthly benefit. Link Health’s CEO, Dr. Alister Martin, ER physician and Harvard Professor, expressed enthusiasm for the grant, highlighting that this funding is a game-changer for Link Health and the communities we serve.
The CHEE Fund grant will allow us to expand our efforts in connecting individuals to the Affordable Connectivity Program, thereby fostering health equity and civic involvement.
Get in touch
For further information about Link Health’s initiatives, please visit our website or contact melissa@ahealthierdemocracy.org