As 2025 begins, healthcare organizations are faced with a growing demand for seamless connectivity, advanced technologies, and equitable access to services. With the rise of telehealth, electronic health records (EHRs), and the increased integration of AI, robust and reliable networks are no longer a luxury—they are a necessity.
This year brings exciting advancements and challenges in healthcare connectivity, and the Universal Service Administrative Company’s (USAC) Healthcare Connect Fund (HCF) continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring non-profit and public healthcare providers can access the broadband services they need. Here are the top healthcare connectivity trends shaping 2025 and how you can align your network goals to “network better.”
1. Expansion of Telehealth Services
Telehealth remains a cornerstone of modern healthcare delivery, enabling providers to reach patients in rural and underserved areas. However, this expansion requires high-speed and secure broadband networks.
The USAC HCF helps healthcare providers offset the costs of building and maintaining these networks, ensuring even small rural clinics have the bandwidth to support telehealth platforms. For 2025, focus on optimizing your network to handle increased traffic, reduce latency, and maintain compliance with HIPAA regulations.
2. Increased Focus on Network Security
With healthcare being a prime target for cyberattacks, network security is non-negotiable. Advanced firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encrypted communications are critical for protecting sensitive patient data.
In addition to funding broadband, the HCF program can also support infrastructure upgrades that enhance network security. Consider leveraging these resources to ensure your network meets the highest standards for data protection.
3. Adoption of Next-Generation Broadband
The transition to next-generation broadband technologies, such as 5G and fiber-optic networks, will accelerate in 2025. These technologies provide the speed and reliability needed for innovations like AI diagnostics and remote surgeries.
The USAC HCF is instrumental in helping organizations modernize their networks to meet these demands. Evaluate whether your current network infrastructure can support the next wave of healthcare technology, and explore how HCF funding can bridge the gap.
4. Data Integration and Interoperability
Healthcare systems are increasingly reliant on the seamless sharing of data across platforms and providers. Interoperability ensures that patient records, diagnostic results, and treatment plans are accessible when and where they are needed.
To support this, networks must provide consistent uptime and robust data transfer capabilities. Use 2025 as a year to audit your network’s capacity for handling integrated data systems and explore how USAC HCF can fund the upgrades needed to stay ahead.
5. Bridging the Digital Divide
Access to healthcare is directly tied to broadband availability. Rural and underserved communities often lack the infrastructure for modern connectivity, limiting their access to telehealth and other vital services.
USAC HCF is designed to address these disparities by subsidizing broadband costs for non-profit and public healthcare providers serving these areas. By participating in the program, your organization can contribute to closing the digital divide and bringing equitable care to all patients.
6. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
As organizations adopt greener practices, network infrastructure must follow suit. Energy-efficient networking equipment, virtualization, and cloud-based systems are becoming standard.
Consider how you can align your network goals with sustainability initiatives. Many energy-efficient upgrades are eligible for support through the HCF, enabling you to create a modern and eco-friendly infrastructure.
Setting Your Network Goals for 2025
As healthcare organizations navigate this transformative year, aligning network strategies with these trends is key. Here’s how you can set and achieve your goals:
- Leverage USAC HCF Funding: Assess your eligibility for the program and identify areas where funding can support upgrades, expansions, or enhanced security measures.
- Conduct a Network Assessment: Evaluate your current infrastructure’s capacity, security, and scalability.
- Plan for Growth: Anticipate future needs based on emerging technologies and patient demand, ensuring your network can adapt.
- Collaborate with Experts: Partner with professionals who understand healthcare connectivity and can guide you through the complexities of modernizing your network.
Partner with FG to “Network Better”
At FG, we specialize in guiding healthcare organizations through the complexities of network management, including leveraging USAC HCF funding. From network assessments to broadband modernization, we ensure our clients are equipped to meet the demands of 2025 and beyond.
This year, let’s set bold goals to transform connectivity into a driver of better care. With the right strategies and resources, your organization can thrive in this evolving landscape—and truly network better.