What is telemedicine?
Telemedicine (also called virtual care) gives you 24/7 access to an online nurse or doctor. To use TELUS Health Virtual Care, you need a smartphone, tablet or computer.
Why use telemedicine?
You and your immediate family can get medical and mental health support, free of charge. And there's no need to make an appointment or sit in a waiting room.
Prescriptions
Diagnosis
Lab work requests
Referrals to specialists
When you can use virtual care
- Rashes and skin irritations
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Digestive issues
- Cough
- Cold
- Flu (without complications)
- Weight loss counselling
- Insomnia
- Quitting smoking
- Sports injuries
Good to know
Telemedicine does not replace your family doctor and should not be used for emergencies.
Medical support at your fingertips
Get personalized medical advice via text or video chat, wherever you are in Canada.
Download the TELUS Health Virtual Care app
FAQ
How do I register members of my immediate family?
You can add a dependent (spouse or child under 26) in the Profile section.
- To add your spouse, select Manage family, then Add a partner and enter their personal email address. TELUS Health Virtual Care will send them an email to create their own account.
To add a dependent child, select Manage family, then Manage dependents, then Add a dependent and enter their information.
One of the registered parents must be with the child for all consultations. However, a child who has reached the age of consent for medical treatment can create their own account. To get them started, you need to start a consultation, then ask the healthcare professional to send an activation link to the child's email address.
Is there a limit to the number of consultations I can have?
No, there's no limit to the number of times you can use TELUS Health Virtual Care. And there's no time limit for consultations.
Can I get a doctor's note if I have to miss work or school due to illness?
Yes. You can get a doctor's note for up to 3 days if your condition requires you to miss work or school.
If your condition continues or returns, consult your family doctor or a specialist.
Do I need my health card to use the service?
You don't need your health card to use the service but you'll need photo ID.
If you require lab work, tests or referrals, you may be asked to provide health card information.
How are prescriptions, lab requests and specialist referrals sent?
- Prescriptions: sent directly by fax to your pharmacy.
- Lab requests: sent to you by email (with your consent). You need to print them and present them at a clinic of your choice.
- Specialist referrals: sent by fax to your specialist or sent to you by email. You need to print them and present them at a clinic of your choice.
Can I have multiple consultations for the same health problem?
Yes, you can consult several times for the same health problem. The health professional will have access to your information and will be able to follow up.
Can I use the telemedicine service while abroad?
No, you can't use the service outside Canada due to licensing restrictions for healthcare professionals.
If you require an immediate consultation while outside the country and your group plan includes travel insurance, you must first contact our travel assistance service.
Will my family doctor have access to my medical information on the platform?
Health professionals can send notes from medical consultations to your doctor at your request and with your consent.
You can also share conversations you had with a health professional with your doctor. To find them, go to the History section of the app.
