Before you act
When to use a virtual consultation in Quebec
Virtual care may suit some non-urgent concerns. An in-person assessment may be needed when care requires a physical examination or procedure.
A virtual consultation can be a starting point for a non-urgent concern. The right format depends on what the practitioner needs to examine to help you. A phone or video visit cannot replace every examination, but it may help you discuss symptoms, review results and plan the next step in your care.
Virtual care may suit some non-urgent concerns. An in-person assessment may be needed when care requires a physical examination or procedure.
What can start remotely
Selected follow-up questions, discussion of stable symptoms and review of existing results may suit virtual care. Prepare your questions, medications, allergies and relevant documents. Choose a quiet, private space with a reliable connection.
When an in-person examination is needed
Acute pain or a concern requiring palpation, an ear examination or a sample may need an in-person visit. The CMQ says quality requirements remain the same remotely. The practitioner must recognize the limits of the format.
Three questions to ask before you finish
Who will review my results? How can I ask a question after the visit? What happens if I need an in-person examination? The CMQ requires physicians to arrange appropriate follow-up and, when needed, a formal referral pathway. Ask for a clear plan for what comes next.
When a MedVibe consultation may fit
Eligible adults aged 18 and older can request a consultation for a non-urgent concern. Your location, the clinician’s authorization and service suitability are confirmed before booking. The clinician decides whether virtual care is appropriate. Any prescription, diagnosis or referral depends on their assessment and judgment.
When to seek help
For breathing difficulty, major chest pain, stroke signs, loss of consciousness or immediate danger, call 911. For advice about a non-urgent health concern in Quebec, Info-Santé 811, option 1, can help you find an appropriate resource.
Frequently asked questions
Can I attend while travelling?
State where you are physically located. Your location and the practitioner’s authorization must be checked before the consultation.
Is a prescription automatic?
No. Any prescription depends on the clinician’s assessment and judgment.
Can this be handled online?
Online care may be a fit for a routine question, renewal, or document request when you can safely wait for clinician review.
Choose in-person or urgent care if you may need an exam, testing, or immediate treatment. Call 911 for an emergency.
Where this information comes from
- 01Telemedicine: obligations not to forget — Collège des médecins du Québec
- 02Questions and answers about teleconsultations — Collège des médecins du Québec
- 03Info-Santé 811 — Government of Quebec
- 04General Medical Consultation — MedVibe
- 05Virtual care policy framework — Health Canada
Want to talk it through?
If you’re unsure what to do next, request a visit and explain what’s going on. A licensed clinician will decide whether virtual care is a good fit.
Request a visitTax-exempt private medical consultation: $150