What is a telemedicine visit?

Telemedicine uses video cameras, software and monitors to connect
you to specialists who are not located near you, reducing the need to travel to receive care. You will be able to see, hear and talk to a doctor or other health care professional.

How does a telemedicine clinical visit work?

A telemedicine appointment is just like a regular appointment; only the specialist you will be seeing and speaking with is on a monitor. Before you arrive, the specialist you are going to see will already have relevant information about you to support your telemedicine visit. However, you may be asked to bring test results, medications or x-rays with you. A health care professional who has been trained in telemedicine will be with you during your visit. The videoconference connection is made with the specialist at a different location and the visit begins. The health care professional with you may assist with the examination, using tele-diagnostic equipment like a digital stethoscope, otoscope or patient examination camera. The specialist on the monitor can hear heart and breath sounds and look into your ear, nose and throat as if he were sitting in the same room.

Is there a cost for a telemedicine appointment?

No. A Telemedicine appointment is available to anyone with a valid Ontario Health Card.

Is telemedicine private?

Just like a regular doctor's appointment, your telemedicine visit will be private and confidential. It can only be seen and heard by the health care professionals involved. 

Where can I get more information about Telemedicine?

If you have any questions, please speak to your health care professional. You can also visit OTN online at www.otn.ca or call 1-855-654-0888.