Toledo, OH – Harbor has been awarded funding from the Federal Communications Commission for the continuation of telehealth services during the coronavirus pandemic. The FCC’s COVID-19 Telehealth Program, authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, has approved funding for 185 health care providers in 38 states plus Washington, DC. The COVID-19 Telehealth Program will help health care providers provide connected care services to patients at their homes or mobile locations in response to the novel Coronavirus 2019 disease pandemic.
“This grant will allow Harbor to expand our digital platform and provide access to our quality behavior health services across the State of Ohio,” said John Sheehan, President/CEO, Harbor.
Harbor was awarded $328,126 to continue comprehensive mental health and substance use assessment and treatment for all patients, including psychiatric evaluations and pharmacological management, psychological testing and evaluations, primary care and EAP services. The funding will help cover costs for laptop computers, tablets, a patient wellness application license, mobile data plans, video telehealth licenses, and other telehealth equipment. The devices allow for HIPAA compliant telehealth services for patients with mental health and/or substance use disorders. A Patient Wellness App provides an additional level of support for the patients between treatment sessions and has built in links to contact Harbor as needed. Harbor is providing services for current and new patients, regardless of their insurance status.
Services provided via telehealth help to ensure social distancing of staff and patients. Continued delivery and expansion of these critical services also help to reduce unnecessary Emergency Department visits and Psychiatric Inpatient Hospitalization.
For more information, call 419-475-4449, 800-475-4449 or visit www.harbor.org.