Virtual Doctor Visits in Ontario: What's Covered?
A clear breakdown of what OHIP covers for virtual care, what you will pay out of pocket, and how to access virtual healthcare in Ontario.
Virtual doctor visits are here to stay in Ontario - but not everything is covered by OHIP. Understanding what is free and what costs money can save you surprise bills and help you make the best choice for your healthcare needs.
What OHIP Covers for Virtual Visits
When you see an OHIP-enrolled physician virtually, the following services are covered - just as they would be in person:
- General assessments: The physician evaluates your symptoms and provides a diagnosis or treatment plan
- Prescription renewals: Refilling existing medications or adjusting dosages
- Specialist referrals: Your virtual physician can refer you to a specialist
- Mental health assessments: Initial assessments and follow-up for anxiety, depression, and other conditions
- Follow-up care: Checking on a previously diagnosed condition or reviewing test results
- Chronic disease management: Ongoing management of conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma
What OHIP Does NOT Cover
Certain services are classified as "uninsured" by the Ontario Ministry of Health. These are not covered by OHIP regardless of whether you see the doctor in person or virtually:
- Sick notes and medical certificates: Documentation for work, school, or insurance purposes
- Insurance and disability forms: Paperwork required by insurers or for disability claims
- Travel health clearances: Fit-to-fly certificates and travel health consultations
- Cosmetic consultations: Assessments for non-medical cosmetic treatments
- Driver's medical exam: Required medical assessments for commercial driver's licences
- Prescription for non-formulary drugs: Medications not on the Ontario Drug Benefit formulary
OHIP-Covered vs. Private Virtual Care
There is an important distinction between OHIP-covered virtual care and private virtual care:
| Feature | OHIP-Covered | Private Virtual Care |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (OHIP card required) | Flat fee ($55"$100+) |
| Wait time | Variable (days to weeks) | Same-day available |
| Sick notes | Additional fee charged | Included in flat fee |
| Availability | Business hours usually | Evenings/weekends |
| Who qualifies | OHIP cardholders | Any Canadian resident |
When to Use Private Virtual Care
Private virtual care services like MediNote are most useful when:
- You need a same-day sick note and cannot wait for a family doctor appointment
- You do not have a family doctor (estimated 2.2 million Ontarians are unattached)
- You need care outside of regular business hours - evenings, weekends, or holidays
- You need an uninsured service (sick note, medical form, travel clearance)
- Walk-in clinic wait times are too long
How Ontario Telehealth Has Changed Since 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic permanently changed how Ontarians access healthcare. Key milestones include:
- March 2020: Ontario expanded OHIP billing codes to include phone and video consultations
- 2021-2023: The province updated virtual care regulations and physician billing to make permanent
- 2024-2026: Virtual care usage stabilized at approximately 20-30% of all primary care visits in Ontario
Today, the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) reports that virtual care is an established part of Ontario's healthcare system, with no indication of reverting to in-person-only care.
How MediNote Can Help
MediNote provides same-day virtual consultations with licensed Canadian physicians for services that OHIP typically does not cover promptly - including sick notes, medical forms, and travel health consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are virtual doctor visits covered by OHIP?
Virtual consultations with OHIP-enrolled physicians are covered by OHIP, the same as in-person visits. However, services not covered by OHIP in person (such as sick notes, cosmetic consultations, or uninsured services) are also not covered when delivered virtually.
Do I need to pay for a virtual sick note in Ontario?
Yes. Sick notes are classified as uninsured services. Whether you get a sick note in person or through a virtual consultation, OHIP does not cover the cost. MediNote charges a flat $55 that covers the consultation and the note.
Can I see a virtual doctor if I don't have a family doctor?
Yes. Virtual care platforms connect you with licensed physicians regardless of whether you have a family doctor. This is particularly useful for the approximately 2.2 million Ontarians without a family physician.
What virtual health services does OHIP cover?
OHIP covers virtual physician consultations for the same services covered in person: assessment and diagnosis, prescription renewals, referrals to specialists, mental health assessments, and follow-up care. Uninsured services like sick notes, insurance forms, and cosmetic consultations are not covered regardless of delivery method.
This article is for informational purposes only. OHIP coverage details are subject to change. For the most current information, visit ontario.ca/health. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.
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