TeleHealth : Get non-urgent medical care without getting or spreading infectious disease

Covid-19 (Coronavirus) is spread by coughing, sneezing, and poor hand hygiene. Stay home when you’re sick, minimise exposure to people who are or might be sick, and take sensible precautions when around those who are or might be sick. This is particularly important for people at higher risk, i.e. the elderly, those with pre-existing conditions, and people with disabilities.

Strategies make best use of limited resources. We can make smart use of telehealth (telemedicine) and other health care resources to get non-urgent medical care while minimising risk of infection to ourselves and others. In British Columbia, you can call 8-1-1 for free health recommendations from a health professional, or use healthcare mobile applications (e.g. Babylon by Telus Health) to check symptoms and remotely consult with doctors. Your Medical Services Plan (BC MSP) will cover the cost.

Telehealth

• Gives you medical care when you need it, without being exposed to infectious disease going to and from a medical facility, or while you’re there. A medical professional may advise you to go to medical facility for treatment but will help you get there safely and ensure the facility is ready for you.

• Keeps infectious patients away from medical staff and other patients in doctors’ offices, medical clinics, and emergency departments. Infectious patients also don’t expose others to infection going to and from the medical facility in private vehicles or on public transit (e.g. taxis, bus).

• Frees up medical facilities and staff for patients who really need in-person care. It’s hard to set a fracture over the phone.

So put a phone in your first aid kit, and use it for non-urgent medical recommendations or care.