At the April 20, 2026 meeting of the Coudersport Rotary Club, held at A&W West End Grill, Rotarian Micki Brown introduced guest speakers Ashley Matteson and Betty Wilson of UPMC Cole. The presenters shared valuable information about the benefits of Telemedicine and expanded Behavioral Health services now available to the community.

Matteson and Wilson explained that the region’s aging population, combined with a high number of patients managing chronic conditions, often creates challenges—particularly for those with limited transportation options. Historically, access to Behavioral Health services has also been limited in the area. Telemedicine is helping bridge these gaps by saving time, reducing costs, and improving access to care.

They emphasized that early intervention through telehealth can reduce Emergency Room visits and ease the burden on primary care providers. Telemedicine also allows patients to connect with specialists who may otherwise require long-distance travel.

Patients utilizing Telemedicine services at UPMC Cole can visit the local facility, where a nurse performs a hands-on exam while the patient consults remotely with a specialist. These services are especially beneficial for follow-up care, chronic disease management, and medication oversight.

Currently available Telemedicine specialties include:

Neurology (including epilepsy and stroke follow-up care)

Pulmonology

Nephrology

Rheumatology

Child Psychiatry

Adult Psychiatry

Looking ahead, UPMC Cole plans to introduce a Retinal Eye Scanner, which will assist in diagnosing conditions such as diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

The speakers encouraged community members to inquire about Telemedicine options if they are traveling long distances for specialty care. All Telemedicine providers are UPMC physicians, and patients still have the option to see them in person if preferred.

Additionally, Heather Klimek, Care Coordinator at UPMC Cole, is available to assist patients who face transportation challenges and can help identify available resources.

The program highlighted how advancements in Telemedicine are improving access to quality healthcare and enhancing patient outcomes across the region.

(Pictured: Rotarian Micki Brown, Ashley Matteson, Betty Wilson)