Online doctor in Alberta: how a virtual visit works and what Alberta Health covers

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.

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