Louisiana's rural hospitals use computer network to share information, speed care

The distance between rural hospitals and their regional medical centers can make sharing information a struggle, especially in critical situations. In northern Louisiana, a technology initiative is working to bridge the gap, reports The Shreveport Times. The initiative has helped seven rural hospitals use wireless networks and "computers on wheels," at left in a photo by Arely D. Castillo, to connect with the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport.

The technology is sorely needed in these rural areas since doctors and nurses must make quick decisions when it comes to deciding whether a patient needs to be transferred to a more specialized place, writes Chris Day. Without a direct connection to records, that decision is delayed, and so is the best care, especially when far away. The project, funded through the state's Department of Health and Hospitals, will have the hospitals completely connected by March. The plan has hopes to incorporate all 24 rural hospitals in northern Louisiana eventually. (Read more)