Objective: This article highlights the importance of distributed broadband networks as part of the core infrastructure necessary to deliver academic research and education programs. Method: The authors review recent developments in the field and present the University of California, Davis, environment as a case study of a future virtual regional academic medical center. Results: Achieving the potential benefits of distributed broadband networks through regional health information organizations will involve considerable collaboration between different academic groups and the development and implementation of standardized technological and business approaches. Conclusions: Broadband technologies offer a substantial opportunity to improve the way academic education and research programs are delivered.