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Virtual Care in Ontario: What It Can Do and What You Pay

Phone and video visits can save time and money, but not every virtual service is covered by OHIP. Here is what to ask, what virtual care suits, and how to stay safe.

4 min read · Updated

A clinician in a video visit with a patient on a laptop

Seeing a health professional by phone or video can mean no travel, less time off work and easier access if you live far from a clinic. It can also be confusing: some virtual visits are covered by OHIP, and some come with a fee. Knowing which is which can save you money.

Types of virtual care

  • Your own family doctor or nurse practitioner. Many offer some visits by phone or video. Ask your clinic what they offer and when.
  • Virtual walk-in or app-based services. You connect with a clinician you have not met. Some are covered by OHIP when the care is with an Ontario physician, and some charge you directly. Always check before you book.
  • Health811. Call 811 or use the online service for free advice from a registered nurse, any time. It is not a diagnosis, but it can help you decide what to do next.
  • Private virtual care. Counselling, psychotherapy, dietitian care and some physiotherapy are available by video. These are usually private fees, which a benefits plan may cover in part.

What virtual care suits

  • Follow-up visits and reviewing test results
  • Talking through mental health concerns and ongoing therapy
  • Prescription renewals and medication questions
  • Some skin, allergy and minor-illness concerns, especially when you can show the problem on camera
  • Coaching on exercise, nutrition and sleep

What it does not replace

  • Emergencies. For chest pain, trouble breathing, signs of a stroke or thoughts of self-harm, call 911 (or call or text 9-8-8 for a mental health crisis).
  • A hands-on exam, blood tests, imaging or procedures.
  • Anything the clinician says needs to be seen in person.

Questions to ask before you book

  1. Is this visit covered by OHIP, or will I pay? If you pay, ask for the exact fee and what is included.
  2. Who is the clinician and are they registered? Check the profession's college register. A professional treating you in Ontario should be registered to practise in Ontario.
  3. Will my regular doctor get a note? Continuity helps, especially if you are prescribed something.
  4. What if the call drops? Ask how they will reach you.
  5. How is my information kept private?

Tips for a good visit

  • Use a private, quiet spot with a good connection. Test the camera and sound beforehand.
  • Have your health card, medication list and a short list of questions ready.
  • Say up front what you most want to cover, since time is short.
  • Write down the plan at the end and ask what to do if you do not improve.

Keeping the cost down

Ask about the fee first. Check your workplace benefits for virtual counselling or physiotherapy. Compare a couple of providers. AffordableHealth.ca lets you search virtual professionals by what you can afford per visit, and it is free for patients.

This is general information, not medical advice. Coverage rules can change, so confirm with the clinic or Ontario.ca.

General information, not medical advice

These articles summarise public health guidance and are not a substitute for care from a regulated health professional who knows your situation. If this is an emergency, call 911. For a mental-health crisis, call or text 9-8-8. See our Crisis resources.

Sources

This article is general information, not medical, financial, tax or legal advice. Rules, fees and benefits change and differ from person to person. Confirm details with the relevant authority (such as the CRA, your insurer or your provider) or a qualified professional.