Virtual Urgent Care

Nova Scotia Health is offering a virtual option for people coming to the hospital with urgent, non-life-threatening health issues. Virtual Urgent Care is not a replacement for the local emergency department but will be particularly helpful during times when the local emergency department is temporarily closed. 

Receiving urgent care virtually is simple, safe and confidential. At times when virtual urgent care is offered, patients will be assessed by on-site triage staff and register as usual. 

Some examples of what may be able to be seen through a virtual appointment include: 

• prescription refills
• sinus congestion
• coughs and sore throat
• urinary tract infections
• skin concerns; bites and stings
• mild/ moderate aches and pains
• other conditions as assessed by your healthcare provider

How do I prepare for an appointment? 

When preparing for your appointment there are important items that you must have with you:

• Provincial health card - If your health card is about to or has already expired and you have not received a new one in the mail, call 1-800-563-8880. 
• Any private health care insurance information (Blue Cross, Maritime Medical, etc.) 
• Medication - A complete list of your medications, including any vitamins and supplements you take. Download the YourHealthNS app to access a complete list of all your medications. You can download the app at the Apple Store, Google Store, or view online at YourHealthNS.ca. 
• A list of any known allergies and sensitivities 

What will happen during my appointment? 

Virtual Urgent Care works with on-site physicians and staff. Patients coming to the emergency department would see an on-site triage nurse and register as usual. Patients are then assessed by the triage nurse and if their health matter is appropriate for virtual care, the patient is asked if they would like to see a virtual physician.  

If the patient consents, a visit is arranged in a separate room through an on-site computer tablet. Virtual physicians can order any tests or prescriptions (excluding controlled substances) the patient needs. Virtual care nurses may also provide support to the patient during and after the visit. Once the physician finishes the visit, on-site staff receive the physician’s orders. Staff then follow up with the patient to review results, provide any orders for tests or prescriptions, and ensure the patient understands any next steps before they are released/discharged.  
 
Patients who come to emergency departments and need further assessment or are not appropriate for virtual care will be treated by the on-site team. At sites where there is no physician on site, patients with emergency health matters should call 911 for care.