April 5, 2021
Health care providers, grantees, and partners have an exciting opportunity to help spread the word and begin planning for an upcoming program that helps patients and households obtain internet access to connect with virtual health care, jobs, and education.
Beginning around late April, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) will make $3.2 billion available to qualifying households to lower the cost of high-speed internet service and provide discounts on internet service bills and an opportunity for a computer or tablet. The EBB program is similar to the Lifeline program with expanded eligibility, vendors, and subsidies.
We encourage you to develop a plan now to support patients and clients in applying promptly after the application period is announced around late April as funds are expected to go quickly.
How You Can Help
- Share information about the EBB program with patients.
- FCC’s EBB webpage
- Fact sheet
- Provide access to the internet and basic technical support at your organization so patients can complete the application. The Telehealth Resource Centers are available to assist with questions. For more information, including recorded technical assistance webinars, please visit the FCC-supported technical assistance provider Universal Service Administrative Company and visit the resources below.
Resources for the EBB Program: