Good Samaritan Hospital in downtown Los Angeles received a $417,560 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to begin a “telemedicine” program allowing its physicians to consult with doctors and their patients in Guam, officials announced on Wednesday.
The grant will be used for a partnership between the hospital and Guam’s Department of Public Health and Social Service, with Good Samaritan doctors consulting with physicians and patients at six Guam medical facilities. The doctors will offer consultations and medical advice in areas such as cardiology, neurosurgery, infectious diseases, oncology and urology.
“It is an honor for us to partner with the dedicated team of health care providers in Guam through the telemedicine program,” said Andrew B. Leeka, president and CEO of Good Samaritan Hospital. “Through this partnership, local practitioners can consult with specialists in Los Angeles. At the same time, patients will have the benefit of a world-class health care provider close to their home.
“Good Samaritan Hospital can provide much needed health services to areas that lack access to specialized care, especially for those that live in remote areas,” he said.
Good Samaritan has been operating a medical facility in Guam for nearly 30 years. The telemedicine program will expand the hospital’s outreach to additional facilities.
“Real time, quality video conferencing and consultations offer a more efficient and effective way to bring care to our people,” said James Gillan, director of Department of Public Health and Social Services in Guam. “Additionally, this will be a great tool for education and training. We look forward to implementing this program soon.”
