About Virtual Care

COVID-19 is  placing stress on Canada's public health system. Our clinic is starting  to offer virtual care to make sure that we can continue to care for our  patients safely and effectively. This means that we will be using video  and audio technologies for some patient visits rather than asking all  patients to come into our office. We will be using telephone or  technologies that provided by the Province to help make discussions with  your care provider as easy as possible during these difficult times.  Some health concerns can be addressed with virtual care alone, but in  some cases your doctor may ask you to visit a hospital or other health  care facility if necessary, for a physical examination.

We do our best  to make sure that any information you give to us during virtual care  visits is private and secure, but no video or audio tools are ever  completely secure. There is an increased security risk that your health  information may be intercepted or disclosed to third parties when using  video and audio communications tools. To help us keep your information  safe and secure, you can:

         • Understand that this method of communication is not secure in the same way as private appointment in an exam room.

         • Use  a private computer/device (i.e., not an employer's or third party's  computer /device) and secure internet connection. For example, using a  personal computer or tablet is more secure than at the library, and your  access to internet on your home network will generally be more secure  than an open guest Wi-Fi connection.
 

You should  also understand that virtual care is not a substitute for in-person  communication or clinical examinations, where appropriate, or for  attending the Emergency Department when needed (including for any urgent  care that may be required).

If you are  concerned about using video or audio tools for virtual care, you can ask  our office to arrange for you to visit a different healthcare provider  or other health care centre where you can be seen in person. However,  please note that visiting a health care provider in person comes with a  higher risk of coming into contact with Covid-19 and the possibility of  spreading the virus.

By providing  your information, you agree to let us collect, use, or disclose your  personal health information through video or audio communications (while  following applicable privacy laws) in order to provide you with care.  In particular, the following means of electronic communication may be  used: telephone, video call (eVisit offered by OTN).