COVID-19 is placing stress on Canada’s public health system. Our clinic is offering virtual care to make sure that we can continue to care for our patients safely and effectively. This means that we will be using electronic communications for some patient visits rather than asking all patients to come into our office. Some of these technologies are provided by the Province. Others have been provided by vendors such as Google, or Apple to help make discussions as easy as possible during these difficult times. Some health concerns can be addressed with virtual care alone, but in some cases we may ask you to come into the clinic, visit a hospital or other health-care facility for a physical examination if necessary. We do our best to make sure that any information that you give to us during virtual care visits is private and secure, but no electronic communications tools (such as audio, video, email, text) are ever completely secure. There is an increased security risk that your health information may be intercepted or disclosed to third parties when using such electronic communications tools. To help us keep your information safe and secure, you can:

• Understand that electronic communications (such as audio, video, email, text) you receive are not secure in the same way as a private appointment in an exam room.

• Use a private computer/device (i.e., not an employer's or third party's computer/device), secure accounts, and a secure internet connection. For example, using a personal and encrypted email account is more secure than an unencrypted email account, and your access to the 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 going to an Emergency Department when needed (including for any urgent care that may be required).

 

If you are concerned about using electronic communications for virtual care, you can ask our office to attempt to arrange a potential alternative. 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 and use your personal health information through video, audio, and email communications (while following applicable privacy laws) to provide you with care.