Huntsville Hospital is expanding access to specialty care across the Tennessee Valley through a new telemedicine program launched earlier this year. According to Huntsville Hospital, the initiative began in February 2025, focusing on behavioral health services, and later expanded to include neurological care, including 24/7 stroke assessment.
The program utilizes state-of-the-art telemedicine carts and Wi-Fi upgrades, which were funded by more than $1 million in American Rescue Plan funds awarded by the state of Alabama. Huntsville Hospital Foundation received the grant in 2024 to improve telehealth infrastructure across its network.
WAFF 48 News reports that the program allows patients in rural areas to connect virtually with psychiatrists and neurologists for evaluations, diagnosis, and treatment planning. Physicians can review symptoms, order tests, assess medical history, and prescribe medications without requiring in-person visits.
RELATED: Telehealth expands access to health care in rural Alabama
Active telemedicine programs are currently in place at Madison Hospital and Helen Keller Hospital in Sheffield, with additional expansions in progress. Helen Keller Hospital was also the first to adopt the new stroke telemedicine service, enabling emergency room staff to consult with neurologists at Huntsville Hospital, 75 miles away.
According to Huntsville Hospital, the behavioral health component of the program addresses a major gap in care access, as North Alabama has fewer than 75 state-licensed psychiatrists, most of whom are located in Madison County. Telemedicine helps provide services to hospitals outside the Huntsville metro area that otherwise have limited psychiatric coverage.
Per WAFF, the program is already proving effective for patients dealing with anxiety, depression, and stroke-like symptoms. Community hospitals have responded positively, noting the benefits of being able to keep patients close to home while still receiving specialized care.
The effort is part of a broader strategy by HH Health to deliver consistent, high-quality medical support across its network. Program leaders say the initiative has been well-received by both staff and patients, and additional telemedicine expansions are planned.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
