Osler’s new Virtual Urgent Care service gives patients access to physicians from the comfort of home

Virtual appointments with emergency physicians can be booked seven days a week, starting February 24

William Osler Health System (Osler) will soon launch a new Virtual Urgent Care service to provide local residents with access to care for urgent, but non-life threatening, medical issues from the comfort of their homes.

Through this service, patients can book same-day virtual appointments with an Osler emergency physician by using either a smartphone, computer or tablet. The service – which starts on Wednesday, February 24 – is available seven days a week from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

“We’re excited to use technology in this innovative way to provide the community with a safe, convenient option for urgent health care needs that may not require an in-person assessment,” says Kiki Ferrari, Chief Operating Officer, William Osler Health System. “Over the last year, Osler has seen exponential growth in its virtual care options and this new service is a great addition to help reduce the need for some patients to come to the Emergency Department for care.”

Osler’s Virtual Urgent Care service is intended for patients who have conditions such as minor injuries including cuts, sprains, head injuries, new abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and respiratory complaints such as cough, nasal congestion and cold symptoms.

Virtual care visits are very similar to in-person visits a patient would normally have with their health care provider. During a visit patients will have the opportunity to discuss their current health status and ask a physician questions about their care or condition. If the physician feels a patient needs a physical examination, they may then be directed to the closest hospital.

Osler’s Emergency Departments remain open 24/7 to provide emergency care to patients and anyone who feels they are in need of immediate care should call 911 or visit their nearest Emergency Department right away.

What you need to know about Osler’s new Virtual Urgent Care service:

• Same day appointments will be available seven days a week from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on a first-come, first-served basis and can be booked online.
• Patients will need access to a smartphone, computer, or tablet with video capabilities.
• Patients will need to have a valid OHIP card.
• Patients will need to live within a one-hour travel radius of an Osler hospital site so they can attend in-person for a physical examination or testing, if, during the virtual appointment, the doctor feels this is necessary.