Virtual pilot program in Alta. connects thousands of residents with doctors

A pilot program creating virtual connections between Albertans and doctors continues to reduce unnecessary hospital visits. More than 8,000 patients were assessed either over the phone or via videoconferencing, with AHS hoping it can improve access for people and reduce strain on the healthcare system. People can access the virtual system by contacting Health Link at 811, with a nurse referring them to a doctor if needed. When the program launched, Alta. was in the height of the Omicron wave of COVID-19. Most calls still revolve around symptoms related to the virus. There are between one and three doctors working in the program daily and upward of 50 calls can be handled. The medical director of the virtual health program hopes it can be expanded past its pilot phase.