In just a few years, medical teleconsultation has gone from being a technological curiosity to a normal component of the Quebec healthcare system. What was marginal before 2020 has rapidly become normalized, and the offering has expanded considerably. By 2026, hundreds of medical services can be initiated, managed or monitored by teleconsultation in Quebec, without the need for the patient to travel.
But many Quebecers don't know exactly what teleconsultation covers, what it can't do, and how to access it. These grey areas need to be clarified.
What can be treated by teleconsultation
The list of services available via teleconsultation is long. Consultations for common acute symptoms such as respiratory infections, ear infections, urinary tract infections, skin rashes, gastrointestinal disorders and sexually transmitted infections can often be assessed and treated without travel. Prescription renewals for commonly used medications, monitoring of stable chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes or hypothyroidism, and interpretation of test results are all easily done by video or telephone.
Preventive health check-ups can be initiated via teleconsultation: the doctor or PHI takes a history, assesses risk factors, prescribes appropriate tests and schedules recommended screenings according to age. The patient then takes the blood sample in a laboratory and returns for interpretation of the results, also possible via teleconsultation.
What requires a face-to-face consultation
Some situations require a physical assessment that cannot be reproduced remotely. Heart and lung auscultation, abdominal palpation, joint examination, wound suturing, injections, cervical sampling and procedures such as IUD insertion require physical presence. Chest pain, acute dyspnea or any symptom suggesting a medical emergency should be assessed in person or in the emergency room.
Ambiguous situations where the physical examination is likely to significantly alter the clinical approach benefit from a face-to-face consultation. An experienced doctor or PHI can usually determine quickly at the start of a teleconsultation whether a physical consultation is necessary.
RAMQ access and coverage terms and conditions
In Quebec, medical consultations carried out via teleconsultation by RAMQ-registered physicians are reimbursed by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec in the same way as face-to-face consultations for covered residents. This includes video and telephone consultations. Consultations with PHNs may also be covered, depending on the practice setting.
For those not covered by RAMQ or who choose a private medical clinic, consultation fees may apply. Hybrid clinics that combine RAMQ access and private services provide access to a wider range of services with reduced waiting times.
How to prepare for a teleconsultation
To make the most of a teleconsultation, a few simple preparations make all the difference. Having a list of current medications, relevant medical history and recent test results at hand enables the doctor to obtain the necessary information quickly. Being in a quiet, well-lit location, with a stable Internet connection, facilitates communication. A home blood pressure monitor or thermometer can be useful if measurements are required.
Frequently asked questions about teleconsultation
Is teleconsultation as effective as a face-to-face consultation?
For situations adapted to this mode of consultation, studies show comparable satisfaction and clinical results. The quality of the consultation depends more on the skill of the professional and the appropriateness of the request to the format than on the modality itself.
Is it possible to obtain a work stoppage by teleconsultation?
Yes, in most cases. The doctor or IPS can issue an electronic certificate of incapacity for work after assessing the clinical situation via teleconsultation.
Can the elderly use teleconsultation?
Yes, adapted as needed. Teleconsultation by telephone remains accessible to people who are not comfortable with video. A family member can attend the consultation if necessary. Many clinics are making efforts to facilitate access for people less familiar with technology.
When to consult a healthcare professional
If you need a medical consultation and travel is an obstacle, if you want to follow up on chronic conditions or interpret test results, or if you have common symptoms that merit medical evaluation, teleconsultation is an option to consider.
Clinique Omicron offers teleconsultation throughout Quebec, with specialized physicians and nurse practitioners. To book an appointment or find out more about the services available, visit cliniqueomicron.ca.
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Omicron Clinic
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Treatment within 24-48 hours. In-clinic or telemedicine, anywhere in Quebec.
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