Telemedicine in BC: What It Is and How to Access It
An informational overview of virtual care options available to British Columbia residents. BCMedicalAccess.ca does not provide telemedicine services and has no commercial relationship with any platform listed here.
Last Updated: April 15, 2026
What Is Telemedicine?
Telemedicine (also called virtual care or telehealth) refers to the delivery of healthcare services remotely, typically via video call, phone, or secure messaging. In British Columbia, telemedicine can be delivered through the public health system (e.g., your family doctor conducting a phone or video visit) or through private platforms that charge out-of-pocket fees.
The BC Ministry of Health and Health Authorities have expanded virtual care options since 2020. However, access through the public system still depends on having an enrolled family physician or nurse practitioner. Private telemedicine platforms provide an alternative for patients without a family doctor or those seeking faster access.
When Telemedicine May Be Useful
Telemedicine is generally appropriate for non-urgent, non-emergency situations. Common use cases include:
- Obtaining a physician requisition for private diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT, ultrasound) when you do not have a family doctor
- Getting a specialist referral letter when your GP is unavailable or you are unattached
- Prescription renewals for stable, ongoing conditions
- Initial assessment of minor illnesses (skin conditions, respiratory infections, UTIs)
- Mental health counselling and initial psychological assessments
- Follow-up consultations that do not require a physical examination
Important: Telemedicine is not appropriate for medical emergencies, chest pain, difficulty breathing, stroke symptoms, or any situation requiring physical examination or immediate intervention. Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
Public vs. Private Telemedicine in BC
Public System Virtual Care
If you have an enrolled family physician or nurse practitioner in BC, they may offer phone or video appointments through the public system. These visits are covered by MSP. Access depends on your provider's availability and whether they offer virtual options.
Private Telemedicine Platforms
Private platforms charge out-of-pocket fees and are not covered by MSP (though some extended health plans may reimburse part of the cost). They typically offer faster access and do not require enrolment with a specific physician.
Private Telemedicine Platforms Serving BC
The following platforms are publicly available to BC residents. Pricing and availability are sourced directly from each platform's public website and were verified in April 2026. BCMedicalAccess.ca has no commercial relationship with any of these services. Always confirm current pricing and availability directly with the platform before booking.
Maple
Visit WebsitePricing verified April 2026 from getmaple.ca/pricing
TELUS Health MyCare
Visit WebsitePricing verified April 2026 from telus.com/en/health/my-care
Dialogue
Visit WebsiteIndividual pricing not publicly listed as of April 2026; confirm directly with Dialogue
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telemedicine covered by BC's Medical Services Plan (MSP)?
Can a telemedicine doctor provide a referral for a specialist or diagnostic imaging in BC?
Is telemedicine appropriate for urgent or emergency situations?
Can I use telemedicine to see a specialist in BC?
Does BCMedicalAccess.ca offer telemedicine services?
Sources
Important: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
Access to private services is subject to provincial regulations. "Private" refers to non-MSP insured services or opted-out providers. No referral or access is guaranteed.