Will My Family Doctor Drop Me If I Use Virtual Care? Here’s the Truth About How OHIP Works.
Using Virtual Care Apps in Ontario: Will Your Family Doctor Drop You?
No, your family doctor won't drop you for using virtual care apps in Ontario. You can use services like Arlo alongside your regular family doctor without any issues.
How it works
Think of virtual care as an addition to your healthcare team, not a replacement. When you use a virtual care app for things like minor illnesses, prescription renewals, or quick health questions, you're simply getting care when your family doctor isn't available.
Your family doctor understands that parents need healthcare access outside of regular office hours. Kids get sick at 11 PM, fevers spike on weekends, and sometimes you just need quick reassurance about a rash or cough. Virtual care fills these gaps perfectly.
Most family doctors actually appreciate when patients use virtual care appropriately. It means fewer urgent calls and walk-ins for minor issues, letting them focus on patients who need in-person care or complex ongoing treatment.
What you'll need
- Your health card number
- A smartphone or computer with internet
- Basic information about your child's symptoms or health question
- List of any medications your child takes
Keeping everyone in the loop
The key to using virtual care successfully is communication. Virtual care providers can send visit summaries to your family doctor, keeping them informed about any care you receive. This actually helps your family doctor provide better ongoing care because they have a complete picture of your child's health.
If you receive a prescription or important health advice through virtual care, mention it at your next regular appointment. This helps your family doctor stay up to date and coordinate your child's overall care.
Common questions
Will my family doctor be upset if I use virtual care? Most family doctors support their patients using virtual care for appropriate situations. They want you to get timely care when you need it.
Should I tell my family doctor I'm using virtual care? It's helpful to mention it, especially if you received any prescriptions or important health advice. Your family doctor can note this in your file and consider it for future care decisions.
What if the virtual care provider disagrees with my family doctor? This rarely happens, but if it does, your family doctor has the complete picture of your child's health history and can help coordinate the best approach.
The takeaway
Using virtual care doesn't threaten your relationship with your family doctor. It's simply another tool to help keep your family healthy when you need it most.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References
- [Virtual Care in Ontario](https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-virtual-care)
- [College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario Virtual Care Guidelines](https://www.cpso.on.ca/Physicians/Policies-Guidance/Policies/Virtual-Care)
- [Ontario Medical Association Virtual Care Information](https://www.oma.org/virtual-care/)