USI GWEP telehealth initiative connects community partners, provides healthcare access to local residents

The University of Southern Indiana Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program (GWEP) is launching a new telehealth initiative to improve older adults’ access to medical care. Beginning Monday, May 15, Vanderburgh County residents will be able to participate in telehealth appointments with Deaconess Clinic medical providers at four Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (EVPL) locations. 

“The COVID pandemic helped us realize that lack of technology and reliable internet access, particularly in rural areas, are barriers for older adults participating in telehealth appointments,” says Dr. Kevin Valadares, Chair of Health Administration. "Our partnership with Deaconess Clinic and EVPL allows for an innovative model of care to be provided at trusted library locations.” 

Telehealth visits virtually connect patients to healthcare providers with appointments ranging from simple phone calls to real-time face-to-face conversations with video via phones, tablets or computers. EVPL staff will help set up any necessary technology for the appointment which may include laptops, headphones and speakers. 

According to Valadares, the project is focusing on Medicare annual wellness visits and behavioral health appointments with Deaconess providers, although any type of appointments will be scheduled. “Eventually, we hope to use this model of care as a prototype to be replicated in rural communities in southwestern Indiana,” he says. 

Dr. Amanda Bohleber, Chief Transformation Officer and Family Practice Physician with Deaconess Health System, said having access to teleheath is a win for all. “Telehealth allows patients to connect with their provider from a convenient location improving both access to care and the timeliness of care,” she says. “As a result, patients in all stages of life get the opportunity to receive the care they need when they need it and have improved outcomes.” 

Katie Reineke, Outreach Manager with EVPL, said the telehealth initiative is an example of how the library has evolved to be not just a place for learning, but a place for convening. “Librarians regularly help people of all ages out with technological needs, so it is a great fit for us to work with older adults who need assistance with their medical appointments,” she says. “Libraries are already known for providing safe, trusted and secure meeting areas—now, we will also be known as an option for telehealth.” 

Participating library locations are: 

• EVPL Central: 9:15-11:15 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays 

• EVPL Oaklyn: 9:15-11:15 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays

• EVPL North Park: 9:15-11:15 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m. Tuesdays

• EVPL Red Bank: 9:15-11:15 a.m. and noon to 2 p.m. Tuesdays 

For more information, visit USI.edu/GWEP. 

This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $3,691,706 million with zero percentage financed with nongovernmental sources. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.