The project seeks to operate a comprehensive telehealth service program utilizing advanced telecommunication and computer/information technologies at Edgewood Terrace, a 16-acre community designed to meet the housing and service needs of low-and moderate-income individuals, families, and the elderly. The goal of the project is to improve the economics and health of a Northeast Washington D.C. community by delivering targeted technologies and services to over 290 residents in a Senior Building. The project also will provide telehealth training to entry-level, paraprofessional health care workers to certify them for higher paying jobs as Biomedical/Health Care Technicians.
The project focuses on innovative technology-based service delivery. It seeks to take advantage of Edgewood Terrace's unique infrastructure, which has broadband access in each residential unit in the complex. Key components of the project include the development of a Biomedical Technology Demonstration Center for demonstration, education, and training on assistive and health monitoring technologies for promoting personal health, wellness, and independent living; a physical and virtual Clinical Storefront supported by Catholic University of America's nursing school and clinicians at the National Rehabilitation Hospital (or Sister Kenny Institute), which will provide access to local and remote health professionals and support services; in-home technologies for continuous and routine health and activity monitoring for those with chronic illness and acute medical conditions; and training and certification for 40 individuals to fulfill positions as Bio-Med/Health-care Technicians, allowing them to earn an average of $30,000 per year.
The project is a collaborative effort between The Catholic University of America, Community Preservation & Development Corporation, the Edgewood Terrace community, Microsoft Corporation, and the National Rehabilitation Hospital (or Sister Kenny Institute). At the Catholic University of America, the project is supported by the Schools of Engineering, Nursing, and Social Work.
