State leaders present at global conference on high-speed internet and digital equity

Lansing, Mich. — Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity’s (LEO) High Speed Internet Office (MIHI) and partners at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) took the global stage this week to highlight how high-speed internet plays a critical role in our health and well-being, including access to telehealth services, critical digital skills needed to utilize online health resources, improved experiences for rural hospital staff and a generally enhanced quality of life.

The Bridging Michigan's Digital Divide: Advancing Digital Equity and Health IT panel at the 2025 HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition focused on Michigan’s efforts to ensure all individuals and communities have the tools and resources needed to access and use the internet and related technology to support their health and well-being.

“High-speed internet access is necessary in today’s digital world and plays a critical role in connecting students to education, job seekers to new opportunities, patients to healthcare and families to their loved ones,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “High-speed internet isn’t a luxury — it’s a lifeline. When every Michigander has reliable internet access, it means stronger communities, a more competitive workforce and a future where no one is left behind.”

Michigan’s Health Information Technology Commission (HIT) plays a role in advancing health outcomes for the state. Health care systems rely on internet-based software to provide quality care to patients, and quality internet connections and trained staff are needed to treat patients. An internet connection is considered a “super social determinant of health,” and the Health IT commission was critical in advocating for the creation of MIHI as a way to close the digital divide and bring high-speed internet access to more people, businesses and health care providers across the state.

Digital Equity Director Allie Herkenroder presented along with Digital Inclusion Manager Jessica Robinson and Michigan HIT Commision co-chair Dr. Michael Zaroukian. Herkenroder, Robinson and Dr. Zaroukian showcased the unique collaboration between MIHI and the Michigan Health Information Technology Commission to advance access to internet across the state and provided guidance for states seeking similar outcomes. They also spoke about how the recently announced Michigan Inclusive Training, Technology and Equity Network (MITTEN) program is working in communities to connect Michiganders with the necessary digital skills required to utilize healthcare services.

MIHI’s two main goals are ensuring high-speed internet is available for every home, business, institution and community and to ensure 95% of Michigan households are able to have a permanent home internet connection.

For more information on Michigan’s leading work on expanding high-speed internet access, visit the MIHI webpage at Michigan.gov/MIHI.

To learn more about the Health Information Technology work, visit Michigan.gov/MDHHS.