Virtual Health
Virtual Health incorporates technology to connect patients and their care teams. Our goal is to provide patient-centred care and remove barriers to access using tools such as video conference, email, and text messaging.
What to expect
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If your clinician has identified your visit as appropriate for a virtual visit, you'll receive an email from your health-care provider with the next steps.
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Join Zoom from a web browser or download the Zoom app to your mobile device. Join a Zoom test meeting to make sure it's working.
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Before your virtual appointment, review the virtual patient notice.
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Once your appointment has been confirmed, you'll receive a second email from your health-care provider with a link to join the Zoom meeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the necessary equipment required for a virtual visit?
To use ZOOM video conferencing your next health care visit, you’ll need the following:
- Access to the internet (WiFi or Data)
- A smart phone, tablet, or computer
- If using the computer, please use the Chrome browser
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Do virtual visits cost money?
No, there is no cost to you for using this service.
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Do I need to download anything for my virtual visit?
We want to ensure your virtual visit is a seamless and easy experience. To help ensure that, we suggest you do the following in preparation for your appointment:
- For smart phone/tablet Users: Download the “ZOOM Cloud Meetings” application from the App Store
- For computer users: While you are not required to download ZOOM onto your desktop to have a meeting, we recommend downloading ZOOM Client for Meetings to ensure a better experience.
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Do I need to sign up for an account?
No, you do not need to have an account to have a Zoom appointment with your provider.
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Are virtual visits safe to use?
In accordance with British Columbia’s Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, we will collect your personal information, specifically your first and last name and email address, to confirm your identity and enable you to access virtual health visits. We will send the registration invitations, appointment reminder notifications, and survey links only to the email address you provided. Your information, including the care you receive, is kept completely confidential.
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If I want to learn more about using ZOOM where should I go?
If you’d like more resources to support your ZOOM visit, please visit the ZOOM website for additional live tutorials, quick videos, and step-by-step guides.
Resources
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VCH Zoom Patient User Manual
A detailed breakdown on how to join a Zoom meeting.
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Zoom and PIPEDA/PHIPA Compliance
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Virtual Health brochure
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Family guide for virtual visits
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Quick tips for virtual visits
How to join a zoom meeting for family and friends
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Virtual visits for loved ones with dementia
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Canada Health Infoway
Resources to learn more about virtual care, including some tips to prepare for your next visit.
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Technical support
Call 1 (844) 442-4433 toll-free for patients needing support connecting to their virtual health visit. The help desk is available Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
For physicians and clinicians
For care providers who want to set up virtual meetings and appointments, you can use Zoom. This is a great option for patients and clients who do not need to come to a health care setting for their appointment.