Virtual Care Use in Canada

Virtual healthcare, sometimes known as telehealth or telemedicine, has gained significant traction in Canada in recent years, as a means to deliver medical services remotely using technology. With advancements in digital communication and increased access to high-speed internet, virtual health care has become more accessible and widely used nationwide. In fact, 94% of physicians said they currently use virtual care with various modalities, according to data from the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). More than 70% of respondents to the same CMA survey said they believe virtual care improves patient access and enables quality care and efficient care for patients.?

One of the main drivers for adopting virtual healthcare in Canada is its potential to improve access to medical services, especially in rural and remote areas where access to healthcare providers may be limited. Virtual healthcare allows patients to connect with healthcare professionals remotely through video, audio, or messaging-based communication, eliminating the need? to travel long distances to see a healthcare provider in-person. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues, transportation challenges, or those who live in underserved communities.

Another significant factor contributing to the use of virtual healthcare in Canada is the increasing demand for convenient and efficient healthcare services. Virtual healthcare allows patients? flexibility to receive medical care from the comfort of their homes or workplaces, eliminating the need for them to take time off from work or disrupt their daily routines. This is especially valuable for minor health concerns, routine check-ups, and follow-up appointments that do not require in-person examinations.

Indeed, virtual healthcare may mean the difference between a patient receiving the care necessary to improve their health or dealing with the consequences of untreated ailments when an in-person appointment is unavailable.

Ultimately, virtual healthcare aims to provide accessible healthcare for everyone. We’ve seen that it can work (on a large scale, even), such as during the Covid-19 pandemic. In Canada, from January 2021 to March 2022, 33% of all patient-reported visits were virtual. Virtual care has been particularly helpful in improving access to mental health care services, which have been in high demand, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Waitlists for mental health care are often six months or longer for in-person care – and only increasing – virtual mental health appointment solves this lack of availability and lessens wait times. This is especially true for pediatric mental health concerns, where treatment is more specialized, and waitlists are longer than adult care.?

As a whole, Canadians want more telehealth options: 71% of Canadians said they would trade some of their healthcare benefits for access to expanding virtual care options. The Canadian government is listening and has taken steps to support and promote virtual healthcare. For example, provincial and territorial governments have introduced policies and funding initiatives to encourage healthcare providers to adopt technology and integrate it? into their practice. Additionally, the federal government has invested in expanding access to high-speed internet in rural and remote areas to enable more Canadians to access virtual healthcare services.

One unique aspect of virtual health care quickly gaining steam is virtual care for children. These virtual pediatric clinics provide families access to specialized pediatric healthcare experts through messaging and video calling – either on an ad hoc basis or through a subscription model. Families simply create an account through a mobile app or website to start receiving trusted care and wellness advice based on best-practice pediatric frameworks. Providers for these specialized virtual clinics can provide a similar experience to in-person care. They can resolve, refer, or escalate healthcare concerns as needed, outlining clear next steps for any symptoms a child is experiencing. They can even provide medical notes and form completion, prescribe medication, or order lab and diagnostic testing as needed.?

Working parents deserve a trusted pediatric care resource. Our Kix360° benefits program gives employees peace of mind that their families are cared for, leading to a more engaged and productive workforce better equipped to navigate work-life challenges. Adding specialized pediatric care to your family benefits program allows employees to focus on being their best – at home and work. Contact Linda Lachapelle or visit our website to learn more.