 |
TECHNOLOGY GIFTS BRIDGE THE DIGITAL DIVIDE
Over a span of many years, Verizon and Geisinger Health System have teamed up to bring timely, important services to the people of Pennsylvania. Not surprisingly, communication is the common thread. Together they have left a lasting mark on our region by coupling telecommunications expertise and a commitment to offering the highest quality health care close to where rural residents live and work.
Even before Google made it possible a decade ago for us to shop for information from home, Verizon and its predecessors had already stepped up to help ensure that people in rural communities of Pennsylvania could reach important health information just as easily. Through their generous contributions, Geisinger Health System has completed several initiatives that merge telecommunications and health care in areas that improve quality of life in direct, meaningful ways.
“Verizon’s goal is to help people achieve the skills needed to live, learn and work in the 21st century, and Geisinger’s healthcare programs align well,” said Chris Brennan, Director-External Affairs, Verizon Pennsylvania.
WHEN ROADS ARE IMPASSABLE
One of Verizon’s earlier gifts enabled physicians in remote counties to use technology to connect to medical specialists on the main campus in Danville. Satellite communication allowed physicians to share X-rays, for example, ensuring a fast diagnosis and treatment in rural areas, even when winter storms made roads impassable.
Several years later, Geisinger’s research revealed that three quarters of Pennsylvania residents had no Internet access. Unlike people in other areas of the country, those here could not at that time benefit from the fast-growing, quality health information online. Again, Verizon stepped up with funding for Geisinger’s then-new eHealth initiatives, which brought Internet access plus important training to the public in their local libraries.
TECHNOLOGY HELPS KEEP CHILDREN SAFE
Just as their common goals brought better healthcare access to rural areas a decade ago, a more recent initiative uses technology to improve the lives of
children today. Verizon’s support of the Child Advocacy Center of the Central Susquehanna Valley ensures compassionate, expert care to over 500 children who have been abused. Verizon’s funding allows physicians to consult remotely and even share medical images with the sometimes-distant medical experts who are well versed in child abuse.
“Geisinger’s programs align closely with our mission to help improve the safety and health of children and families in the community,” Chris said. “We recognize Geisinger’s role as a leader in health care and in its efforts with the Center to ensure that children in need receive protection,” he said.
Working hand in hand, Verizon and Geisinger are able to maximize their unique strengths in delivering quality health care through the use of technology that will benefit generations to come.
