Telehealth care quality for Ontarians
Instead of sitting in a waiting room, more Ontarians are logging into telehealth platforms like Ogaei to see family doctors via video. Since the pandemic, virtual care and video consultations have become more prominent in the healthcare world.
Telehealth boom and care quality in Ontario
A 2023 systematic review concluded that virtual consultations may be as effective as in-person care and even improve efficiency in some cases. They can also reduce waiting times and save patients money on travel costs, making care more accessible.
A Canadian Medical Association survey in 2020 found 91 per cent of patients were satisfied or very satisfied with the virtual care they received. By 2021, around 60 per cent of people rated virtual appointments as being as good as in-person visits.
For day-to-day primary care needs like follow-ups on chronic conditions, prescription renewals, or minor illnesses, a video chat with a family physician will do the job. Many Ontarians also feel like they get similar quality care through a video call as they would in-person.
Specialist telemedicine has expanded too, with services like virtual psychiatry and dermatology consultations becoming more common. For example, a quick video referral to a dermatologist can help assess a rash and decide whether an in-person procedure is needed, saving time for both the patient and specialist.
Limitations and OHIP coverage for virtual health consultations in Ontario
Ontario’s doctors emphasize that not all conditions can be treated via video. Severe issues or symptoms needing a physical exam still require an in-person visit. For example, you wouldn’t set a broken bone over zoom.
Video consultations also rely on good internet connection and a certain comfort level with technology. Despite these challenges, virtual health has still become a prominent part of the healthcare system in Canada.
The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) covers video consultations with licensed doctors, meaning that patients with a valid OHIP card can use telehealth services like Ogaei. As a result, seeing a primary care provider or even some specialists online has become easier than ever.
➲ Check the Best Online Doctor options in Ontario
Video consultations have proved to be effective and convenient for many healthcare needs. While they don’t replace the need for in-person exams in all cases, they offer telehealth care quality that often matches traditional visits.
For routine family medicine concerns, mental health support, and follow-ups, virtual care provides a safe and satisfactory alternative.
Top Asked Questions about Virtual Health Consultations in Ontario
Are video consultations with doctors really effective?
Yes, studies show virtual consultations can be as effective as in-person visits for many issues.
Is telehealth care quality as good as seeing a doctor in-person?
For many routine needs, telehealth care quality is comparable to clinic visits. Minor issues, follow-ups, and even mental health consults work well online.
Does OHIP cover virtual consultations in Ontario?
Yes, if you have a valid OHIP card, it covers virtual consultations with online family doctors.
➲ Check all about OHIP-Telemedicine Coverage
Can my family doctor treat me over a video call?
Family doctors can handle most issues via video. If they feel like you need a physical exam or in-person test, they will ask you to come in.
Can I see a specialist through telemedicine?
Often, yes. Specialist telemedicine is growing. You can have virtual consultations with specialists like psychiatrists, dermatologists, or endocrinologists for advice and follow-ups. They’ll let you know if an in-person appointment is necessary.
References
https://www.cma.ca/sites/default/files/2022-02/Virtual-Care-in-Canada-Progress-and-Potential-EN.pdf
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37647117
