Rural Healthcare Pilot Program
In June 2009, the Southern Ohio Health Care Network (SOHCN) announced the award of an $18 million FCC-funded contract to Horizon Telcom for construction of a state-of-the-art fiber optic network across thirteen counties in southern Ohio.
The project will connect 120+ health care facilities, large and small, to a robust fiber optic network. The connectivity will allow area providers to participate in telemedicine initiatives, progressive community health record projects and the regional health information organization. Likewise, use of the network will enhance sustainability of rural medical practices, develop deeper collaboration among healthcare providers and enhance emergency communications.
The same metropolitan-class broadband services will become available to businesses, educational sites and government offices in the area. Discounted rates will also support Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs), improving the pace of broadband deployment in the rural expanse.
Executive Summary for the Rural Healthcare Pilot Program (pdf)
Phase 1 Service Area
Fiber-Optic Services
- Competitive bid won by Horizon Telcom (Chillicothe Telephone Company)
- Horizon to build and operate the network
- Fiber optic ring(s) for reliability
- Metropolitan-class connections
- Game changer for economic development
SOHCN Projects
News & Updates
June 10, 2009
The Southern Ohio Health Care Network announced the award of an $18 million FCC-funded contract to Horizon Telcom for construction of a state-of-the-art fiber optic network across thirteen counties in southern Ohio.