Ontario-wide virtual specialist consultations · Physician or nurse practitioner referral required

Patient guide · Virtual care

Preparing for a virtual specialist visit

A few practical steps can make a virtual consultation more private, efficient and clinically useful.

Before the appointment

Prepare the information and setting

Choose a private, quiet location with a reliable internet or telephone connection. Keep photo identification and health-card information available if the clinic has asked for them.

Have an accurate medication list

Include prescription medicines, non-prescription products, vitamins and supplements. Note allergies and any recent medication changes. Do not rely on memory if a written or pharmacy list is available.

Collect requested measurements

If the clinic has asked for home blood-pressure readings, weight, glucose readings or other measurements, have the dates and values ready. Use only equipment and instructions appropriate for you.

Write down your priorities

List the main questions you want addressed and any important change since the referral was sent. Keep relevant laboratory, imaging and consultation information available when it has not already reached the clinic.

Virtual care has limits. Consistent with CPSO expectations, the physician may recommend an in-person examination, testing, urgent assessment or another service when the clinical question cannot be safely or adequately addressed virtually.

During and after the visit

Confirm how follow-up information will be communicated and which clinician will coordinate next steps. A consultation report is sent to the referring clinician. The clinic does not provide emergency services.

Professional guidance reviewed July 2026. General preparation information only.

Referral-based specialist care across Ontario

Referring clinicians may submit relevant clinical information through the clinic’s referral pathway.

Referral Information