Information on virtual appointments

Some of your appointments will be virtual appointments, either by video conference or by telephone. You will be notified at the time of booking of the type of appointment and given the appropriate instructions.

 

We do our best to make sure that any information you give to us during virtual care visits is private and secure, but no video or audio tools are ever completely secure. There is an increased security risk that your health information may be intercepted or disclosed to third parties when using video or audio communications tools.  Understand that emails, or calls, you receive are not secure in the same way as a private appointment in an exam room.

 

To help us keep your information safe and secure, you can:​

 

• Use a private computer/device (i.e., not an employer’s or third party’s computer/device).
   

• Secure accounts, and a secure internet connection. For example, using a personal and encrypted email account is more secure than an unencrypted email account.
   

• Access to the Internet on your home network will generally be more secure than an open or guest Wi-Fi connection, like at restaurants, libraries, etc.
   

You should also understand that electronic communication is not a substitute for in-person communication or clinical examinations, where appropriate, or for attending the Emergency Department when needed (including for any urgent care that may be required).​
 

By providing your information, you agree to let us collect, use, or disclose your personal health information through video or audio communications (while following applicable privacy laws) in order to provide you with care. In particular, the following means of electronic communication may be used by email, and videoconferencing.