Town hall meetings planned in six, Michigan counties for residents to share their input, opinions on use of telehealth

Central Upper Peninsula, Mich. (April 15, 2024) –  Residents in six counties across the Central UP are being asked to share their opinions and input regarding their use and needs surrounding health care and technology. 

It’s part of a telehealth study that’s being done in partnership with Connected Nation Michigan (CN Michigan), the local subsidiary of national nonprofit Connected Nation, which is working to close the Digital Divide; the Central Upper Peninsula Planning & Development Regional Commission (CUPPAD); and the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.

“Telehealth is actually a very broadband term. It can incorporate everything from a call with your doctor to a heart rate device that’s monitored at the hospital,” said Chris McGovern, Director, Research Services, CN Michigan. “We’re trying to understand how, when, and why families and individuals in Central UP are using technology to access health care, as well as the challenges they’re having, so we can identify ways to better meet their needs.”

The first of six town hall meetings kicks off on Thursday, April 25, at Bay College West in Dickinson County. To encourage participation, the organizers will be giving away prizes to attendees — one $50 and one $25 gift card at each event.

The full meeting schedule is listed below:

Thursday, April 25 – 5 to 7 p.m.
Bay College West (Dickinson County)

Friday, April 26 – 3 to 5 p.m.
Spies Public Library (Menominee County)

Saturday, April 27 – 10 a.m. to noon
Marquette Township Hall (Marquette County)

Monday, April 29 – 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Manistique School Public Library (Schoolcraft County)

Tuesday, April 30 – 6 to 8 p.m.
Bay College Main Campus (Delta County)

Wednesday, May 1 – 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Munising School Library (Alger County)

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About Connected Nation: The national nonprofit was founded in 2001 with a mission to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand access to and increase the adoption and use of broadband (high-speed internet) and its related technologies for all people. Everyone belongs in a Connected Nation.