What’s the difference between seeing a doctor in person or virtually?

Today, there are many ways to see a doctor. You can visit a clinic, log into Zoom or give them a call. The way we connect with medical help depends on the context.

• Some medical issues require an in-person physical exam to diagnose you properly. It also may be easier to establish a personal connection and trust with your doctor over time in person.
• There are many benefits to virtual care. Think convenience and flexibility, especially for patients who have mobility issues, live far away from the nearest clinic or are juggling work demands.  
• However, virtual care is challenging for patients who have limited technological skills or don’t have access to reliable computers or Internet. And depending on the virtual care you need and where you live, patients may have to pay for it themselves.

What do we mean by virtual care?

Virtual care is any interaction between a patient and medical provider that doesn’t involve direct, in-person contact. This includes video visits, phone calls and secure messaging through text or email.

When can I see a doctor virtually? 

You can see a doctor virtually for issues like common symptoms, chronic issues, follow-up appointments or mental health counselling. Medical concerns assessed through diagnostic testing like blood work and urinalysis are often well suited to virtual care, because doctors can go over results and prescribe medication as needed virtually. Here are some examples:

• Urinary, sinus and minor skin infections
• Sore throat, with a throat swab arranged or done at a pharmacy to test for strep
• Sexual health, including screening and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, and hormonal contraception

Other medical issues and appointments that can safely be done virtually include:

• Mental health issues
• Travel-related health care
• Conditions monitored with home devices and/or lab tests
• Review of lab tests, imaging and specialist reports

Who pays when I see a doctor virtually?

That depends on where you live and the kind of care you need. Doctors who offer virtual care in Canada are typically paid in one of three ways:

• Public coverage of virtual care varies across provinces and territories.
• Many employers offer virtual health care to employees and their dependents through private health insurance.
• For any consultation that is not covered under a government health insurance plan or employer benefits, patients must pay out of pocket.

When do I need to see a doctor in person?

You should see a doctor in person when a physical exam is needed to provide medical care. Here are some examples:

• Emergency symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, loss of vision or hearing, sudden weakness or numbness
• Ear pain
• Cough
• Abdominal or digestive problems
• Muscle or joint injuries
• Annual physical exams

Visiting your doctor in person the first time you meet them is helpful because you can get to know and trust them. In-person access is also important for patients who have unreliable access to technology or those who do not have a space in their home to take a virtual appointment safely and privately.