UAMS e-Link was established through the $102 million Arkansas Healthcare, Higher Education, Public Safety, & Research Integrated Broadband Initiative, funded by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Broadband Technology Opportunities Program (BTOP). The initiative upgraded, expanded, and integrated fragmented broadband networks across Arkansas by providing 474 community anchor institutions with substantial broadband enhancements, broadband equipment, and connectivity to a statewide fiber backbone. Its purpose was to improve broadband access for healthcare, higher education, public safety, and research organizations in unserved, underserved, and economically distressed communities.
During the first year of the initiative, completion of the required Environmental Assessment cleared the way for network implementation and the acquisition of grant-funded broadband services and telemedicine equipment. A dedicated team of professionals was assembled to manage, plan, and implement the statewide project.
Program staff prepared participating sites for broadband connectivity and telemedicine services by coordinating vendor selection through competitive procurement processes, identifying fiber routes, and deploying interactive video equipment. They also worked directly with participating organizations by conducting site visits, providing project orientation materials, coordinating agreements for equipment and broadband services, and supporting implementation activities. The UAMS e-Link website launched in October 2010 as a central resource for participating organizations and the public.
Today, UAMS e-Link program managers continue to partner with vendors, healthcare organizations, and UAMS Network Management to establish and upgrade broadband connectivity, deploy telemedicine technology, and support participating sites. Through ongoing training, technical assistance, and site visits, they help organizations maximize the use of telehealth technologies to improve access to care throughout Arkansas.
To learn more about UAMS e-Link, visit the website HERE.