Online medical consultations, also called teleconsultations or telemedicine, allow you to see a doctor via video conference, phone, or secure messaging, without having to travel to a clinic. In Quebec, this practice has seen significant growth since 2020 and is now an integral part of the care offered by many institutions.
In this article, we'll explain how online medical consultations work in Quebec, what's covered by the RAMQ, the advantages and limitations of this approach, and how to benefit from it.
How does it work in practice?
An online medical consultation generally takes place in a few simple steps:
- Make an appointment — You book an appointment online or by phone with the clinic that offers the service.
- Connection — At the scheduled time, you connect via a secure platform (application, video link, or phone).
- Consultation The doctor asks about your symptoms, reviews your medical history, and makes a clinical assessment.
- Tracking — If necessary, the doctor will write a prescription (sent electronically to your pharmacy), order tests, or refer you for an in-person examination.
What can be treated via teleconsultation?
Teleconsultation is suitable for many common medical situations:
- Common infections (sinusitis, otitis, urinary tract infection, conjunctivitis)
- Prescription Renewals
- Chronic condition monitoring (diabetes, hypertension, asthma)
- Questions about medication and its side effects
- Visible dermatological problems (rashes, redness)
- Mental health (anxiety, depression, psychiatric follow-up)
- Preventive medicine consultation
- Medical certificates and administrative forms
What Telehealth Cannot Do
Some situations require an in-person physical examination:
- Chest pain or acute breathing difficulties (emergency – call 911)
- Fractures or injuries requiring a physical examination
- Blood draws or lab tests
- Gynecological or prostate exams
- Any symptom requiring further palpation or auscultation
Is RAMQ coverage free?
Yes, in most cases. Medical consultations done via telemedicine by a doctor registered with the RAMQ are covered exactly like in-person consultations. You just need to present your valid health insurance card.
Certain specialized or administrative services (employer certificates, insurance forms) may incur additional fees, just as they do during in-person consultations.
Advantages of online consultation
- Geographic accessibility — See a doctor from anywhere in Quebec
- Time saving No travel or waiting room
- Speed — Appointments often available sooner than at a clinic
- Continuity of care — Regular follow-ups with your doctor, even when traveling
- Comfort — Consult from home, at work, or on vacation
How to choose a telemedicine service in Quebec?
Some criteria to check before choosing:
- Are doctors registered with the College of Physicians of Quebec?
- Is the service covered by RAMQ?
- Is the platform secure and compliant with privacy standards?
- Can we get a follow-up with the same doctor?
- Does the service offer flexible hours?
Teleconsultation at Clinique Omicron
Clinique Omicron offers accessible online medical consultations anywhere in Quebec. Our team of doctors is available for quick consultations, prescription renewals, follow-ups for chronic conditions, and much more.
To book a telemedicine appointment, visit our page appointment scheduling call us at 514 606-3350. Visit our Pricing Page for available services.
If you're unsure whether to choose an online or in-person consultation, a healthcare professional can guide you toward the most appropriate option for your situation.
Omicron Clinic
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Treatment within 24-48 hours. In-clinic or telemedicine, anywhere in Quebec.
Insurance receipts. 7j/7. No family doctor required.
