AT&T becomes more than an access provider for Tennessee

Implications: The AT&T and Tennessee state initiative for eHealth combines these advantages: 1) AT&T protects its network contract; 2) State government involved as an active participant; 3) Patients and providers both gain benefits.

Analysis: The AT&T and Tennessee government initiative for an eHealth information exchange is a unique model to collaborate the resources of enterprise and government.  AT&T has about a $3 billion investment for networks in Tennessee and is protecting its contract for recurring revenue.  At the same time, AT&T is expanding beyond being a network “pipe” to offer compelling applications in patient care and medical imaging.  AT&T is using Compuware’s Covisint platform for a VPN-based portal to support messaging and sharing images between doctors.  Tennessee will gain a robust statewide network-based health information system for the entire state and also, a virtual office system for physicians.   Besides the role of AT&T, the Tennessee state government will be an active participant by offering grants to set up access to the eHealth portal.  Regardless of being a rural or emergency situation, the broadband eHealth initiative becomes accessible for a wide range of providers and patient needs across the 6 million residents of Tennessee.