The regulator promised that it would adjust the cap for inflation on a yearly basis, and would let any unused spending carry forward.

The current FCC leadership hasn't won many fans in technology circles, but this telemedicine increase (along with hoped-for increases in rural broadband funding) could be crucial in the long run. High-speed rural internet is promising precisely because it closes service gaps for people who can't (or don't want to) live in urban areas. In theory, this helps fulfill that promise.