A virtual care visit means we will be using video and audio technologies for a patient visit rather than asking the patient to come for an in-person appointment. When patients and clinicians opt for a virtual care visit, they can help prevent the spread of infections, save time, and enjoy flexibility with regards to receiving and delivering health care.

Virtual care technologies can benefit a variety of patients. Virtual visits at Queensway Carleton Hospital occur using secure videoconferencing tools and policies to help ensure that any information you give us during the virtual care visit is private and secure. However, this virtual method of communication is not secure the same way as a private appointment in an exam room; please refer to the link on how you can help us keep you information private.

• Use a private computer or device (i.e., not an employer’s or third-party computer or device)
• Use a secure internet connection. Keep in mind, using a personal computer or tablet is more secure than using a public computer like at a library, and your access to the Internet on you home network will generally be more secure than an open guest Wi-Fi connection.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Select a quiet and private location for your virtual appointment.

If you would like instructions prior to your visit, please read our step-by-step tip sheet or watch the walkthrough video below.

Before your appointment, please test your audio and video.

Pre-appointment checklist

• Find a private quiet location for your visit
• Ensure you have a reliable internet connection
• Find a device - PC, laptop, phone, or tablet - with speakers, microphone, and camera
• Ensure your device is charged or plugged in
• Test your audio and video
• Write down any questions you may have
• Try to be available 15 minutes before and 30 minutes after your call

• Your health card (if your health card doesn't have a photo, bring photo ID)
• Information related to your condition, including a list of symptoms and any recorded health data
• If the appointment is your first interaction with the healthcare provider, please have your relevant health history ready, including:
• Existing health conditions and/or allergies
• Medications
• Immunizations
• Past surgeries and hospitalizations
• Family health history
• Something to take notes on, like pen and paper or an electronic device

• Please log in to your appointment 5-10 minutes before your appointment time. You may have to wait until you are admitted into the virtual meeting room.
• During the video call, please remain in front of the camera and speak clearly.
• If you are unable to find a quiet location for the call, please mute your microphone when you aren't speaking to enhance sound quality.

For immediate support, you can reach our support team by email at ConnectedCare@MyChamp.ca or by calling our toll-free number at 1-833-721-0660 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).

Your health care team will call you to book your virtual appointment. They will also:

• Give you instructions on how to prepare for your virtual visit.
• Ask you for verbal consent for the upcoming appointment.
• Let you know the day and time of your virtual visit.

If at any time you are concerned about using video or audio technologies for virtual care or would like to change your virtual visit to an in-person visit you can call the clinic or scheduling desk where your virtual appointment was made, and they will book you a new in-person visit which may need to be scheduled on a different date and time.