Province announces expansion of virtual health care
To support Albertans’ health care needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, the provincial government says it is working with physicians to increase options for virtual care.
Officials say adjustments to how physicians can bill the province will encourage more physicians to provide care virtually and to make virtual health care more readily available to Albertans who need or choose to use this option.
“We know that some Albertans have put off visiting a physician during the pandemic to address their health care needs,” says Jason Copping, Minister of Health. “Improving access to virtual care is increasingly important to people who wish to limit their personal interactions during the pandemic, but need to see a physician. Balancing the payments for virtual and in-person options allow physicians to choose the best mode of care delivery without having to worry about compensation.”
“We have heard from so many community-based physicians who are struggling to maintain the viability of their practices through the pandemic,” adds Dr. Michelle Warren, Alberta Medical Association. “Recognizing that virtual care should be valued at the same level as in-person care is important. These improvements will support all physicians that provide virtual care – particularly those that practice in the community – to continue delivering quality care for their patients while helping to financially stabilize their clinics.”