YOUR ON: USD Receives $1.1 Million Federal Grant to Transform Telehealth Education

Christmas logo

USD Receives $1.1 Million Federal Grant to Transform Telehealth Education

The University of South Dakota is poised to revolutionize its approach to healthcare education through a substantial $1.1 million federal grant. Awarded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), this funding aims to enhance telehealth services for the residents of South Dakota, a state where healthcare access can be challenging, particularly in rural areas.

This transformative initiative is a collaborative effort among USD’s School of Health Sciences, Sanford School of Medicine, Department of Communication Sciences & Disorders, and Department of Psychology. Together, these departments will construct the necessary infrastructure and develop a skilled workforce to advance the telehealth project. This will enable broader service reach through spoke sites, eliminating the need for patients or providers to travel.

With the support of Senator Mike Rounds, the Telehealth Collaborative seeks to build upon USD Health Affairs’ existing investments in cutting-edge technology. “We are thankful to Senator Rounds for supporting the Telehealth Collaborative and nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders in the state,” remarked USD President Sheila K. Gestring. “This grant not only solidifies USD’s dedication to innovative and accessible healthcare, but it also underscores our commitment to serving South Dakota communities.”

The Collaborative has outlined several pivotal goals:
  • Establishing an interdisciplinary telehealth platform for training healthcare students.
  • Developing a telehealth curriculum and certificate program.
  • Recruiting faculty and staff with telehealth expertise.
  • Fostering collaborations to support rural sites using a hub-and-spoke telehealth model, especially in underserved areas.
  • Creating a regional telehealth consortium aimed at sharing resources, education, training, service, and research.

The project emphasizes integrating telehealth into educational models to ensure healthcare providers are well-trained and confident in utilizing telehealth technology. Through simulated and real patient/client interactions, the two-year project endeavors to produce a practice-ready workforce equipped with cutting-edge skills and improve access to quality care throughout South Dakota.

Senator Rounds highlighted the project’s significance, stating: “This crucial investment will construct the necessary infrastructure for telehealth education, equipping future healthcare professionals with modern tools and technology. By enhancing access to quality care, especially in rural and underserved areas, this initiative will strengthen healthcare delivery across South Dakota.”

For more information, you can read the original article from KXLG.

Leave A Comment

Total Views: 0Daily Views: 0By Categories: Article, Education, HealthcareTags: , Published On: December 24, 2024Last Updated: December 24, 2024

Review This Page

Recent Posts

  • Futuristic digital illustration highlighting decentralized finance (defi) and blockchain through hexagonal icons and a virtual finger interacting with technology.

The Blockchain Revolution: Building the Future of Finance with DeFi

December 8, 2024|0 Comments

DeFi emerges as a beacon of transformation, promising to revolutionize how we interact with money. DeFi stands at the forefront, offering instant, transparent transactions without the constraints of conventional banking systems. This new paradigm opens doors to innovative investment opportunities and fosters a more inclusive global economy.

More Articles

Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!

1008, 2023

Which mortgage is right for you: fixed or adjustable rate?

By |August 10, 2023|Categories: Article, Real Estate News|Tags: , , , , |0 Comments

The Pros and Cons of Fixed-Rate and Adjustable-Rate Mortgages

Introduction

Buying a home is an exciting time, but it also comes with important decisions to make. One of the most significant decisions is choosing between a fixed-rate mortgage and an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). Understanding the differences and weighing the pros and cons of each option can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals and circumstances.

What is a Fixed-Rate Mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage is a type of home loan where the interest rate remains the same throughout the entire term of the loan. This means that your monthly mortgage payment will remain constant, providing stability and predictability in your budget.

The Benefits of a Fixed-Rate Mortgage

There are several advantages to choosing a fixed-rate mortgage: 1. Consistent Monthly Payments: With a fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly mortgage payment remains the same, which can be beneficial for budgeting and long-term financial planning. You won’t have to worry about fluctuations in interest rates and unexpected increases in your payment. 2. Predictable Total Interest Costs: Since the interest rate is fixed, you can easily calculate the total interest costs over the life of the loan. This allows you to plan and budget accordingly, knowing exactly how much you will pay throughout the loan term. 3. Protection from Rising Interest Rates: If interest rates rise in the future, you’ll be protected if you have a fixed-rate mortgage. Your interest rate and monthly payment will remain the same, regardless of market conditions. 4. Long-Term Stability: If you plan to stay in your home for a long time, a fixed-rate mortgage offers stability and peace of mind. You won’t have to worry about the uncertainty and potential financial strain that comes with adjusting interest rates.

What is an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)?

An adjustable-rate mortgage, as the name suggests, has an interest rate that can vary over time. The initial interest rate is typically lower than that of a fixed-rate mortgage, but it can adjust periodically, based on certain market indexes.

The Benefits of an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

While an adjustable-rate mortgage may not be suitable for everyone, it does offer some benefits worth considering: 1. Lower Initial Interest Rate: One of the main advantages of an ARM is the lower initial interest rate compared to a fixed-rate mortgage. This can result in lower monthly payments, allowing you to potentially afford a more expensive home or allocate the savings towards other financial goals. 2. Potential for Lower Rates in the Future: If interest rates decrease over time, your adjustable-rate mortgage could adjust downwards, resulting in lower monthly payments. This can save you money in the long run if you plan on staying in your home for a short period or if you believe interest rates may drop. 3. Flexibility: Adjustable-rate mortgages often have an initial fixed-rate period, typically ranging from 3 to 10 years. During this period, your interest rate remains fixed, providing stability while enjoying the benefits of a lower interest rate. This can be advantageous if you plan to sell the property or refinance before the adjustable period begins.

The Risks of an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

While there are potential benefits to an adjustable-rate mortgage, it’s important to consider the risks associated with this type of loan: 1. Uncertain Future Payments: Since the interest rate can fluctuate, your monthly mortgage payment can also change. This uncertainty can make budgeting and financial planning more challenging, especially if your income is fixed and your ability to absorb payment fluctuations is limited. 2. Potential for Higher Rates in the Future: If interest rates rise over time, your adjustable-rate mortgage could also adjust upwards. This means your monthly payments may increase, potentially putting a strain on your budget. 3. Long-Term Stability: If you plan to stay in your home for an extended period, the uncertainty of an adjustable-rate mortgage may not be the most suitable option. Stability and predictability may be more beneficial for your financial well-being in the long run.

Which Mortgage is Right for You?

Determining which type of mortgage is right for you depends on several factors, including your financial goals, risk tolerance, and plans for your future: 1. Consider a Fixed-Rate Mortgage If: – You prefer consistency and predictability in your monthly payments. – You plan to stay in your home for a long time. – You want to protect yourself from potential rising interest rates. 2. Consider an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage If: – You plan to sell or refinance before the adjustable period begins. – You believe that interest rates may decrease in the future. – You are comfortable with the uncertainty of potential payment fluctuations.

Conclusion

Choosing between a fixed-rate mortgage and an adjustable-rate mortgage is an important decision when purchasing a home. Understanding the benefits and risks of each option can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your financial goals and circumstances. Whether you prioritize stability, predictability, or potential savings, weighing your options carefully and seeking professional advice can ensure that you select the mortgage that best fits your needs. Remember, every individual and situation is unique, so take the time to assess your own circumstances before making a final decision.
908, 2023

House Hunting? Overcoming Obstacles to Find Your Dream Home

By |August 9, 2023|Categories: Article|Tags: , , , , , |0 Comments

Introduction The real estate market has witnessed a sluggish period recently, as various factors have hindered its growth and stability. Affordability concerns, limited inventory, credit tightening, rising interest rates, and a rebound in home prices following a brief correction last fall have all contributed to the challenges faced by both buyers and sellers. In this article, we will explore these intricacies of the current housing market and provide valuable insights to help you navigate this dynamic landscape. 1. Affordability Challenges The dream of homeownership has become increasingly difficult to achieve for many individuals and families. Over the past few years, housing prices have outpaced wage growth, making homes less affordable. This affordability gap has been exacerbated by the limited supply of affordable homes, particularly in highly sought-after areas. As a result, potential buyers find themselves struggling to find suitable options that align with their budget and lifestyle preferences. 2. Limited Inventory Another key issue plaguing the housing market is the shortage of available properties for sale. The demand for homes continues to outstrip the supply, leading to increased competition among buyers. This scarcity not only drives up prices but also limits the range of choices available to prospective homeowners. Consequently, buyers often find themselves compromising on their preferences or delaying their homeownership plans until more inventory becomes available. 3. Credit Tightening Access to credit plays a vital role in the real estate market. However, recent credit tightening measures have made it more challenging for some buyers to secure financing. Lenders have become more cautious, implementing stricter requirements that may exclude potential homeowners who previously would have qualified for a mortgage. While these measures aim to reduce the risk of another housing crisis, they can add an additional layer of complexity for those seeking to secure a home loan. 4. Rising Interest Rates Interest rates are another factor contributing to the current slowdown in the housing market. After a prolonged period of historically low rates, the Federal Reserve has gradually raised rates in response to a strengthening economy. Higher interest rates translate into increased mortgage costs, which can deter some potential buyers. Moreover, rising rates also impact affordability, as higher monthly mortgage payments decrease the purchasing power of borrowers. Consequently, this can further intensify the challenges faced by buyers in an already competitive market. 5. Home Prices Firming Up In recent years, the housing market experienced a correction period, characterized by a temporary decline in home prices. However, this correction has largely subsided, and home prices are once again on the rise. While homeowners may welcome this trend, buyers are confronted with the reality of higher purchase prices. This situation pushes affordability barriers even further, hampering the ability of many potential buyers to enter the market. Tips for Prospective Buyers and Sellers Despite the complexities of the current housing market, there are strategies that can help buyers and sellers navigate these challenges successfully. Consider the following tips: 1. Conduct Thorough Research: As a prospective buyer or seller, it is crucial to stay informed about market trends, interest rates, and local inventory levels. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and capitalize on favorable conditions. 2. Partner with a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent: Enlisting the help of a reputable and experienced real estate agent can prove invaluable. Agents possess in-depth knowledge of the local market and can guide you through the buying or selling process, providing insights and strategies specific to your situation. 3. Plan for Your Budget and Mortgage: Buyers should thoroughly evaluate their financial situation and establish a realistic budget before beginning their search. Becoming pre-approved for a mortgage can streamline the purchasing process and increase the chances of securing a desirable property. Additionally, sellers should work with an agent to set an appropriate listing price to maximize their chances of a successful transaction. 4. Seek Out Alternative Financing Options: If traditional lending options prove challenging, consider exploring alternative financing routes, such as government-backed loan programs or down payment assistance programs. These options may offer more flexibility and accessibility in achieving homeownership goals. 5. Patience and Flexibility: In a competitive market, patience and flexibility are essential. Buyers may need to compromise on certain preferences or expand their search radius to find suitable options. Similarly, sellers should be open to negotiation and market feedback to ensure a successful sale. Conclusion The current state of the housing market presents challenges that require careful consideration and strategic planning for both buyers and sellers. Affordability concerns, limited inventory, credit tightening, rising interest rates, and firming home prices all contribute to the complexity of this dynamic landscape. However, armed with knowledge, realistic expectations, and the right support system, individuals can overcome these challenges and achieve their real estate goals. Remember to stay up to date with market conditions, seek professional guidance, and remain patient and flexible throughout the process. With perseverance, informed decision-making, and adaptability, the path to successful real estate transactions can be navigated in any market environment.
2407, 2023

Utah

By |July 24, 2023|Categories: Utah|0 Comments

Forgive the Cyber Dust

We will return shortly after upgrades are complete

2407, 2023

Ohio

By |July 24, 2023|Categories: Ohio|0 Comments

Forgive the Cyber Dust

We will return shortly after upgrades are complete