For many Canadians, visiting a doctor's office or a hospital can be challenging. Living in a remote area, having mobility issues, or having a hectic work schedule can make it difficult to get the care you need. Virtual care offers a convenient solution.
Virtual care allows you to access health services through technology. You can consult with doctors via video, use apps to monitor your health metrics, or devices to track vital signs. Virtual care can help you save both time and money, making health care more accessible and improving your overall health and wellbeing.
To start with virtual care:
- Explore your options and costs: Some virtual care services may be covered publicly or by your employer. Check with your doctor, insurance company, or workplace to understand your options and any associated costs.
- Find a doctor who offers virtual care: Look for doctors providing virtual care through online platforms, apps, or telemedicine services. You can also ask your current primary care provider for a referral.
- Prepare for success: Ensure that you have a good internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone, and a quiet, private place for your appointments. You might also need to download a specific app, create an account, or verify your identity before your appointment.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Tips-and-Strategies-to-Personalize-your-Health-Care
Health care services should address individual needs and concerns, known as inclusive care. Everyone is different and the same goes for the health care services that will benefit you most. This is especially important for those who are balancing treatment plans with cultural traditions, dealing with gender identity issues, or facing communication barriers or the need for interpreters.
To access inclusive care:
- Ask for help or advice: Consider asking friends, family, or health care providers for referrals to professionals who have experience in handling your specific needs.
- Use online resources: Use websites, databases, or apps designed to help you find inclusive providers. There are many organizations that focus on sharing resources and contact information for health care services for specific communities. This includes organizations like the Black Healthcare Professionals Directory which serves to help Black Canadians find providers who understand their experiences. Many Canadian organizations work to connect people with inclusive care providers, like It Gets Better Canada, which connects 2SLGBTQIA+ youth with supportive services across the country.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Tips-and-Strategies-to-Personalize-your-Health-Care
While Canada's public health insurance covers most hospital and physician services, other health care services may be treated as an out-of-pocket expense. Financial barriers to health care can lead to delayed treatments, skipped medications, and increased stress.
Fortunately, there are additional options to help manage the cost of your health care services:
- Financial assistance programs: There are programs that can help you pay for certain extended health care services, such as prescription drugs, dental care, or medical devices. These programs may be funded publicly, privately, or by non-profit organizations. Examples of these programs are the Non-Insured Health Benefits Program for eligible First Nations and Inuit people, provincial financial coverage programs for prescription drugs, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan.
- Exploring resource-limited health care services: Some health care services, such as psychotherapy services, can be made affordable or even provided at no cost to Canadians. Even if you have existing financial coverage, you may require support beyond what your plan covers. Look up your province's health services website to find what options are available in your area.
Additionally, your employer may provide health benefits to fill coverage gaps. Connect with your employee benefits plan to learn more about the benefits available to you.
Understanding your options and advocating for your specific needs is essential when navigating the health care system in Canada. Whether through virtual care, seeking inclusive services, or managing financial barriers, there are strategies to help you access the personalized health care you deserve.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Tips-and-Strategies-to-Personalize-your-Health-Care
