The agreement, announced Jan. 9, contracts Hughes to supply routers that are integrated with AvL Technologies’ auto-deploy antenna, enabling video conferencing, prescription dispensing, voice calls, transfer of electronic health records, viewing of digital images, telemedicine, and digital messaging. Hughes will provide the required connectivity throughout the NETC service area via its Spaceway 3 broadband satellite.

   NETC is a federally funded consortium of healthcare providers, serving more than 400 sites in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.  

   “NETC is working to build an affordable, high quality of service, private telecommunications network that will provide healthcare providers with quick and convenient access to the latest research and medical advances, speed the sharing of medical records and provide access for remote medical diagnostics and surgery, dentistry, and behavioral health treatment,” NETC President Brian Thibeau said in a statement. “Leveraging satellite broadband is a game changer for telehealth, especially for patients in rural areas who will now be able to receive top quality care through enhanced telemedicine and information sharing. It is exciting to make a difference in the healthcare of New Englanders by bringing them innovative technology solutions like this.”