Virtual (Phone/Video) Appointments

VirtualPrior to COVID, in person appointments were the only permitted way to provide medical care.  Since COVID, we are allowed to provide in person and virtual care (medical advice and care is not permitted by email).  With the ability to provide virtual care, the governing and regulatory bodies of physicians (the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario and the Canadian Medical Protective Association in Ontario) have made it very clear that physicians can only provide care to patients who are currently in their licensed jurisdiction.

This means that all patients requesting a virtual appointment MUST be in Ontario during the appointment and physicians should confirm that prior to providing any advice or care.  There are no extenuating circumstances to circumvent the regulations.

The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has also advised that patients who have not had an in person appointment within 24 months should have one prior to any further virtual care.

While patients have the option to book in-person or virtual appointments, when booking a virtual appointment, patients should keep in mind the limitations of a virtual appointment.  If an in-person appointment is necessary following a virtual appointment you will need to wait until the next available appointment.  If you are in doubt if your issue can be dealt with virtually you should book an in-person appointment.

Finally, it is your responsibility to ensure you are somewhere appropriate at the time of your virtual visit (private and secure, e.g. not driving, not in a crowded place etc.).

Note that phone calls may come from a blocked or unknown number, please ensure you answer the call.

While we work hard to be on time for all appointments, it is possible that your call may come up to 30 minutes after your appointment time.  Please do not call the clinic until at least 30 minutes past your appointment time if you haven’t heard from your physician.