Online doctor in Alberta: how a virtual visit works and what Alberta Health covers
What to expect from an online doctor visit in Alberta, who it suits, what AHCIP covers, and how DR Now connects you to Medicine Place physicians.
راجعه فريق DR Now في Medicine Place. معلومات عامة لمرضى ألبرتا، وليست نصيحة طبية.
What an online doctor visit is
An online doctor visit, also called virtual care or telehealth, is a video or phone appointment with a licensed physician. In Alberta, the physician must hold a licence with the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Alberta. DR Now is the virtual-care entry point of Medicine Place, a clinic in Alberta: you start on drnow.ca, then book in the secure Medeo system. The visit itself happens on video with your own device.
Which concerns suit a virtual visit
Virtual care works well for many non-emergency concerns: cold and flu symptoms, allergies, rashes, medication questions, prescription renewals, sexual-health questions and follow-ups. It does not replace an in-person examination when one is needed. The physician decides during the visit whether virtual care is appropriate or whether you should be seen in person, at urgent care or in an emergency department.
What Alberta Health covers
Medically necessary physician services are insured for eligible Alberta residents with valid Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan coverage, and that includes eligible virtual visits. Insured visits cost you $0. Patients without valid coverage, such as visitors or people whose coverage has lapsed, may be charged a private consultation fee, currently $75 CAD at Medicine Place. Some services, such as sick notes or forms, are uninsured for everyone and can carry a fee.
How to book
Choose the type of care on DR Now, then continue to Medeo. New patients create an account; returning patients sign in. Pick a time, keep your health card and photo ID nearby, and join from a quiet, private place with a stable connection. If you are unsure whether virtual care fits, call the clinic and a person will help. For urgent or life-threatening symptoms, call 911.
أسئلة شائعة
Do I need an Alberta health card to see an online doctor?
No. A valid Alberta health card means the insured visit is covered. Without it, a private fee applies and is confirmed before the visit.
Can an online doctor in Alberta prescribe medication?
Yes, when it is clinically appropriate after the assessment. Some medications are not prescribed virtually, and prescriptions are never guaranteed before the visit.
Is virtual care available everywhere in Alberta?
Yes, anywhere in Alberta with an internet or phone connection. The service is for Alberta residents and visitors located in Alberta.
