Since COVID-19 hit, the use of telehealth services has increased significantly. During the pandemic it was a way to see a health practitioner while practicing safe distancing. Even though we are no longer in a confinement mode, many doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other medical professionals are offering remote appointments when possible. Having these types of consultations online comes with advantages, but also drawbacks.

Benefits of having a medical appointment online:

Being comfortable in your own space: Appointments in general can be stressful, especially at a clinic or hospital. Attending an appointment online in your chosen space means you are somewhere you feel at ease rather than in a less familiar place. Being in a comfortable space can facilitate talking about more difficult topics like mental health struggles.

Convenience: If you have a busy schedule, having a consultation online with a health practitioner can save you time. Your appointment is a click away and once it is done you can go back to what you were doing.

A way to access services in rural areas: Living outside an urban area far from a hospital or clinic can make it difficult to access health services. Telemedicine can be a way to access resources without the inconvenience of travelling.

The ability to see a practitioner despite difficulties: If you are having trouble getting out of the house because of anxiety or agoraphobia, seeing a practitioner online allows you to seek the medical help you need without leaving your home. This can be helpful for someone who is working on getting out of the house but still facing some challenges.

More immediate access: Some work insurances offer telemedicine services, like TELUS Health, to their employees. At the click of a button, you are able to request an appointment with a health care provider for physical or mental health. The wait time can be a lot less than if you book a consultation in person.

Less exposure to sickness: By having an appointment online, you are lowering your chances of catching an illness at a clinic or hospital. Wearing a mask in person is only partially effective.

Some disadvantages to consider:

Limited internet access: If you have limited access to the internet or live in a rural area that doesn’t have a strong internet signal, then an appointment online might be more difficult. A poor connection can affect the way you are able to speak with the specialist, especially if the signal cuts off or there is a lag in the video.

May still need to go in person: Certain tests can only be done in person. If you are prescribed something like a blood test, then you still have to physically go to the clinic or the hospital.

Can be costly if not covered: If you need to use online services from a private clinic there can be additional fees. (This can also be true in person, of course.)

Can turn into avoidance: If you are struggling with agoraphobia or anxiety and use online appointments as a way to avoid the outside world, it could harm you in the long run.

May be difficult to connect with someone online: Sometimes it can be difficult to emotionally connect through a camera; subtle human interactions that are better felt or processed in person can be more challenging when the other person is not physically in front of you. This is different for everyone; some might prefer online interactions; others might not.

If you would like more information on how to get an appointment virtually, speak to your doctor or your insurance company, or call 811 for more information on telehealth services available to you.

For information about online counselling and a list of resources, visit The Lifeline Canada Foundation: thelifelinecanada.ca/ecounselling.

–Gabrielle Lesage
From Share & Care Fall 2024