USDA accepting applications for rural telemedicine grants

Hospitals and others can apply through July 17 for grants of up to $500,000 each for equipment and technical assistance to provide telemedicine services in rural areas, the Department of Agriculture announced Tuesday. The fiscal year 2017 grants are through the Rural Utilities Service Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program, which provides funds to improve telemedicine and distance learning services in rural areas. Applicants must serve a rural area, demonstrate economic need and provide at least 15 percent in matching funds. For more on the program and how to apply, visit www.rd.usda.gov.