Understanding Telehealth in Canada: What Services Are Available?

Telehealth - also called virtual care or telemedicine - allows Canadians to consult with licensed healthcare providers remotely using phone, video, or secure messaging. It has become a permanent part of the Canadian healthcare system. According to Statistics Canada, 42.5% of Canadians who sought healthcare in 2023 used some form of virtual care. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated adoption, and provincial regulatory bodies have since confirmed telehealth as a standard method of care delivery. Services commonly available through telehealth include general medical consultations, prescription renewals, mental health assessments, sick notes and medical certificates, referrals to specialists, and follow-up appointments. Some services are not suitable for virtual care. Physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment, procedures, vaccinations, and emergencies all require in-person visits. In terms of cost, some telehealth services are covered by provincial health insurance (like OHIP in Ontario). Others, particularly private telehealth platforms, charge fees ranging from $30 to $150 depending on the service. It is important to check whether a platform bills your provincial plan or charges directly. The College of Physicians and Surgeons in your province regulates telehealth providers. Any physician offering virtual care in Canada must be licensed in the province where the patient is located at the time of the consultation. *This article is for informational purposes only.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.