What Happens If You Need In-Person Care?
What happens if I need an in-person visit?: How Arlo connects you to local care in Ontario
Sometimes a text conversation isn't enough, and that's completely okay! If your Arlo provider thinks your child needs to be seen in person, they'll guide you to the right place and make sure you feel prepared for the visit.
How it works
When your Arlo provider determines that your child needs an in-person examination, they'll talk you through exactly what needs to happen next. They might recommend visiting your family doctor, a walk-in clinic, or in more urgent situations, the emergency department.
Your provider will give you a clear summary of your conversation, including what symptoms to mention and any questions to ask during your visit. Think of it as a helpful roadmap for your appointment. They can also help you understand what the in-person doctor might want to check and what to expect during the examination.
If you don't have a family doctor or aren't sure where to go, your Arlo provider can suggest local options based on your location in Ontario. They know the healthcare system and can point you toward walk-in clinics, urgent care centers, or other services that make sense for your situation.
What you'll need
- Your child's health card
- Any medications your child is currently taking
- The summary from your Arlo conversation
- A list of symptoms and when they started
- Your child's temperature if fever is involved
Getting the most from your visit
Your Arlo provider has already done the groundwork by asking detailed questions about your child's symptoms. This means you'll arrive at your in-person appointment with a clear picture of what's been happening and what concerns brought you there.
Don't hesitate to mention that you spoke with a healthcare provider through Arlo first. Many doctors appreciate having that background information, and it can help make your visit more focused and productive.
Common questions
Will I have to pay extra for the in-person visit? Your Arlo consultation is separate from any in-person care costs. Most visits to family doctors are covered by OHIP, while some walk-in clinics or specialized services might have fees.
What if the in-person doctor disagrees with Arlo's assessment? That's part of good healthcare! Different providers might have different perspectives, especially after a physical examination. Your Arlo provider's role is to help you get the right care, even if that means getting a second opinion.
Can I contact Arlo again after my in-person visit? Absolutely! Your Arlo providers are there to support you throughout your child's health journey, including after other appointments.
The takeaway
Needing an in-person visit doesn't mean anything went wrong with your Arlo consultation. It means you're getting thorough, responsible care that puts your child's health first.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References
- [Ontario Health: Find Healthcare Services](https://www.ontario.ca/page/find-health-care-service)
- [College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario: Finding a Doctor](https://www.cpso.on.ca/Public/Services/Find-a-Doctor)
- [Health Care Connect Ontario](https://www.ontario.ca/page/find-family-doctor-or-nurse-practitioner)