
An encounter with Maple doctors consists of the following: describing your symptoms, talking with a doctor via instant messaging or video chat, and a wrap up. Doctors are able to write prescriptions (except for narcotics and control substances), write sick notes, and diagnose.

There are also several elements that prevent Maple from
being widely used. Due to the nature of the interactions, a physical
examination would not be possible. This can be concerning because accurate
diagnosis of many medical conditions may rely on physical examinations.
However, Maple has cited that up to 70% of non-emergency issues can be resolved
without ever needing a hands-on physical exam. Another disadvantage is that
patients are unable to pick their own doctors using Maple. This makes it
difficult to establish long term relationships and to follow up on any issues. In
addition, the services have to be paid for because OHIP does not currently
cover these services. Lastly, there are limitations to the physician’s scope of
practice. They are unable to prescribe narcotics and controlled substances,
authorize a specialist referral or order lab tests, and finally consultations
are not intended for emergency situations.
Maple and telemedicine are unique services. Given the
technology driven age we live in, it would be exciting to see if this service
will grow. Currently, the lack of public coverage significantly limits its use.
Despite this, there are select groups of patients with limited access to
doctors that could benefit greatly from this service.
It would be interesting to hear from patients who have
firsthand experience with these types of services.
Kevin
References
CBC news. “Canadian Patients wait longest to see family doctors”. January 20,
2014.
Retrieved from
http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/canadian-patients-wait-longest-to-see-family-doctors-1.2501468 on March 9, 2017
Retrieved from
http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/canadian-patients-wait-longest-to-see-family-doctors-1.2501468 on March 9, 2017
CNW. “First 24/7 virtual doctor’s ‘office’ arrives in
Canada: New services launches to connect doctors and patients in minutes.”
January 30, 2017
Retrieved from http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/first-247-virtual-doctors-office-arrives-in-canada-new-service-launches-to-connect-doctors-and-patients-in-minutes-612141113.html on March 9, 2017
Retrieved from http://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/first-247-virtual-doctors-office-arrives-in-canada-new-service-launches-to-connect-doctors-and-patients-in-minutes-612141113.html on March 9, 2017
Maple. “Maple – Frequently asked questions.” 2016.
Retrieved from https://www.getmaple.ca/faq on March 9, 2017
Retrieved from https://www.getmaple.ca/faq on March 9, 2017
OTN. “What is Telemedicine.” 2017.
Retrieved from https://otn.ca/what-is-telemedicine/ on March 9, 2017
Retrieved from https://otn.ca/what-is-telemedicine/ on March 9, 2017