The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has today announced that the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the FCC Rural Health Care Pilot Program information collection requirements. As such, May 7, 2007 has been set as the deadline for applications submissions to participate in the pilot program. In September 2006, the FCC created a pilot rural health program to assist public and non-profit health care providers to create or connect to state and regional broadband networks and, in turn, to the advanced resources of national research networks like Internet2. This new program is intended to catalyze the formation of a ubiquitous advanced healthcare network that will improve citizens' access to first class healthcare services, resources and research especially in traditionally underserved areas of the country. Since the FCC order last fall, Internet2 has convened experts from the research and education community, regional networking organizations, and the health sciences to help understand the requirements, services, and resources needed to take full advantage of this program. On a bi-weekly basis, Internet2 has hosted conference calls to bring interested constituents together to discuss, and come to consensus on, these important issues. So far, this group has worked to quickly agree on approaches and strategies and share critical information on acceptable and recommended approaches to proposal development. Internet2 looks forward to continued support and interest in this program leveraging the combined input and expertise from leaders in health sciences and advanced networking. For more information please visit its Web site or visit the FCC: Website