If you are on the wait list for a family doctor – this should come a relief.
Premier Tim Houston has announced $1.3 million to bring a virtual care pilot project to all regions of our province. It’s called VirtualCareNS.
“We have heard from patients and providers that access to health care is a priority,” said Premier Tim Houston. “Virtual care offers a new means of seeing a primary-care provider for many people, and this expansion is a first step in ensuring every Nova Scotian has access to a form of primary care.”
The initial launch happened in select communities back in May and the expansion of the program takes effect in December.
Patients can use VirtualCareNS to access care for a variety of health concerns and if health concerns can’t be resolved virtually, they will be provided with options for in-person care. Primary-care providers can also prescribe medications, order tests and make referrals for specialized care.
“Nova Scotians who don’t have a family doctor need an immediate solution. This is a good interim approach. At the same time, we look forward to working with the new government to make the changes in our health-care system that are needed to ensure that every Nova Scotian has their own family doctor as soon as possible.” said Dr. Heather Johnson, president, Doctors Nova Scotia
There are more than 75,000 on the waitlist for a doctor.
