Healthcare and medical service delivery are the future killer apps of the community broadband networks. Possibly even than economic development, the potential to use these networks to impact practically every injured, sick and even healthy constituent is mind-boggling.

Nizan Friedman, Ph.D., President of Flint Rehabilitation Devices, manufactures and markets technology that helps people affected by strokes, injuries and surgeries progress faster through the rehabilitation process. Internet access is a key element for patients, doctors and rehab specialists that use Flint’s products.

Dr. Friedman discusses the various ways in which broadband and telemedicine enables healthcare professionals, caregivers and patients themselves contribute to communities getting and staying healthy. In rural areas in particular, the lack of access to these technologies poses grave dangers, and is a great motivator behind public officials’ and co-ops’ efforts to build community broadband infrastructure.