High-speed internet is changing the way we receive healthcare. Telehealth lets patients talk to doctors online without traveling long distances. This brings high-quality medical care directly to rural and underserved towns across Iowa.
ICN Connects Your Entire Care System
We provide secure, reliable network connections between:
Local clinics and hospitals
Trusted healthcare partners
Advanced radiology viewing systems
Electronic Medical Records (EMR) databases
With ICN's high-speed broadband, healthcare providers can offer seamless digital services:
Digital Medical Readings: Fast sharing of X-rays, MRIs, and scans.
Virtual Consultations: Live video visits with specialists.
Instant Access: Fast access to medical records and test results.
Real-Time Data Sharing: Safe, instant sharing of vital health data between providers.
Iowa's Healthcare Network Landscape
250+ hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers connected.
Our Network is used by hospitals and other healthcare providers to connect their facilities and support telehealth and other healthcare applications. Below are a few highlights.
Since 2008, the ICN has served as the technical, engineering, and maintenance provider for the IHA’s network program, known as the Iowa Rural Health Telecommunications Program (IRHTP).
In November 2021, ICN updated network hardware at 191 locations. This program provides backup paths to keep rural clinics online. It also allows hospitals to easily increase their internet speeds when they need to share big medical files or consult with offsite specialists.
Many healthcare centers choose to connect directly to the ICN fiber-optic network. A direct fiber connection unlocks powerful digital tools:
Specialized remote doctor visits.
Fast, offsite digital readings of medical scans.
Remote intensive care (e-ICU) and remote pharmacy (e-pharmacy) monitoring systems.
Secure, instant updates to electronic health records.
How does the ICN benefit Iowans?
"The ICN network alongside the IRHTP fiber paths provides the infrastructure to connect health care providers across the state. These broadband connections allow for the sharing of information across a secured network that facilitates improved patient care and better outcomes since the patient’s record is accessible to providers and specialists, no matter where they are in the state."
Corey Martin Senior Vice President, Education Services
ICN’s Rural Health Care Involvement
About Rural Health Care
Rural Health Care is administered by the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) under the FCC. This program supports healthcare facilities in bringing world class medical care to rural areas through increased connectivity
Rural Health Care Savings for Fiscal Year 2025
220
Hospital and healthcare locations received ICN service discounts through USAC funding.
$1.3 M
In savings for ICN data services through the Healthcare Connect Fund program.
What Sets ICN Apart
Learn more about the statewide Network with these 12 reasons why the ICN stands out.
