More than $663,000 in funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has been earmarked to support the expansion of telemedicine services in several West Virginia counties.

The funding comes through the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant program. Services will primarily focus on behavioral health and ensuring a continuum of care for those suffering from chronic kidney disease. 

“Broadening access to health care in rural areas saves lives," said U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va. "Telemedicine is a cost-effective option for providing many basic health care services, and it helps ensure West Virginians are able to access care right in their communities." 

Individually, CHANGE, Inc. will receive $500,000 and CAMC Health Education and Research Institute will receive $163,223.