Certified infection control trainers can now use the GCI ConnectMD network to educate medical personnel on the proper methods to keep their facilities safe for patients and staff while maintaining compliance with federal regulations. Previously, a trainer would have to fly into each village or have the workers fly to him or her, which was both costly and restrictive. With ConnectMD videoconferencing technology, instructors can now speak with the trainees, scan the room and discuss compliance issues point-by-point, as well as answer questions from staff.

At the Maniilaq Health Center, staff is required to have annual infection control training. Training is provided to each department separately to ensure that each has specific training for their area and risk of exposure. In Alaska, this annual obligation is not easy. With the vast distance between villages, the scarcity of trainers, and challenging weather, it was once an expensive or impossible requirement for the health workers to meet. In recent years, however, technology has made a significant difference.

"This is by far the best way that I have ever seen to train our village employees," said Robert Saddoris, a nurse with the Maniilaq Association. "Before this technology, I had to make a training video in order to ensure all information was current and then send copies to all of our villages. I can now train staff at the eleven different villages quickly and easily."

About GCI ConnectMD

ConnectMD is owned and operated by GCI (Nasdaq: GNCMA), an Alaska-based telecommunications company that has been successfully providing solutions to customers for over 25 years. The unique combination of telecommunications expertise, a focus on healthcare, and proven experience delivering medical network services, regardless of location, distinguishes ConnectMD from other health IT solutions. Currently 140 facilities are securely exchanging medical data and have access to a suite of health IT tools and services on the ConnectMD medical network.

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