A. Contingent upon the provision of appropriated funds designated for Telemedicine Services Programs, the State Department of Health is authorized to award one or more competitive grants to public hospitals or health care facilities for programs which deliver medical and other health care services through a telemedicine system. The goal of the grant program shall be to assist in the development of telemedicine programs which in turn have the effect of:

1. Empowering rural health facilities;

2. Expanding the range of services to rural areas;

3. Providing greater access to patients in rural areas;

4. Reducing the number of patient transfers to urban areas;

5. Enhancing rural economic development; and

6. Reducing the costs of medical care.

B. Funding may cover the cost of equipment, software, or the connection costs of either upstream or downstream users.

C. All grants shall be matched with funds from the grant recipient or in-kind contributions.

D. In order to be eligible for a grant, the program shall:

1. State clear and measurable program goals and objectives;

2. Provide verifiable data on how the program is meeting its stated goals and objectives; and

3. Include an evaluation component including an annual written self-evaluation.

E. The State Board of Health shall promulgate rules as necessary to administer the Telemedicine Service Program grants and the process by which the grant funding shall be allocated.

Added by Laws 1999, c. 185, § 1, eff. July 1, 1999.