Telemedicine is making healthcare services more convenient and accessible for everyone in Ontario
Canadians spend countless number of hours visiting doctors and specialists. The travel and wait time for a doctor’s appointment can be costly and take several hours or even a full day — often disrupting work or school and causing stress and fatigue.
Did you know that for most health care services, there’s a better way?
Telemedicine is a powerful tool that enables patients to consult with doctors, specialists and healthcare professionals across Ontario through a secure and confidential telemedicine platform by video or phone.
Its purpose is to bring more patients the care they need, where and when they need it most.
Why telemedicine?
Convenient and timely
With telemedicine, patients can easily connect with healthcare professionals to get the care they need quickly and from the comfort of their home. This prevents unnecessary trips to busy walk-in clinics or hospitals.
Less costly for you and our health care system
With the rising cost of gas, telemedicine significantly reduces the cost of travel and carbon footprint associated with travelling to see your doctor or specialist – and, as an added bonus, you won’t have to pay for parking!
Telemedicine also reduces the burden on Ontario’s healthcare system by avoiding unnecessary ER visits. This not only helps to alleviate hospital capacity pressures and wait times, but also reduces costs to our healthcare system.
Improved chronic disease management
Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer and others, are among the leading cause of death and disability in Canada. Telemedicine can help support chronic disease management by providing patients with the necessary care and resources to handle their conditions – often reducing hospital readmissions. This includes referrals to specialists, lab work requisitions and follow-up appointments.
Reduces barriers for those with mobility issues or living in rural areas
With telemedicine, patients can consult with their doctor over the phone, making it much easier for elderly patients and those with mobility restrictions to get immediate care and attention without having to leave their home.
For those living in rural settings, fast access to medical care isn’t always possible. Telemedicine provides a way to meet with a doctor quickly – saving time and keeping people off the roads when driving conditions are hazardous.
Greater access to specialists
Many patients across Ontario have to wait weeks to get an appointment with their doctor, only to wait months for an appointment with a specialist. For those who don’t have a primary care doctor, the stress of having to visit a walk-in clinic or the hospital can be overwhelming. That’s where telemedicine can help. It brings you and the specialist together quickly and conveniently.
Reduced exposure to viruses and germs
Waiting for hours in a doctor’s office with other patients can contribute to the spread of COVID-19, the flu, and other viruses. Telehealth keeps patients at home, avoiding exposure to infectious diseases. This is especially important for aging patients and those who are immune compromised.
Healthcare at your fingertips: How to get started with Tulip Health
Connecting with an Ontario Tulip Health doctor is quick and easy. First, visit our website and select the “Talk to a Doctor” button. Next, have your health card ready and complete the simple contact form. Stay by your phone because we will call you to schedule your appointment for a day and time that works for you.
One of our highly trained doctors will call you at your selected appointment time and help you with your healthcare needs. We even have appointments available the same or next day! It’s that simple and it’s covered by OHIP.
To book an appointment, visit www.tuliphealth.ca.
