Virtual care and the influence of a pandemic: Necessary policy shifts to drive digital innovation in healthcare

Patrick B. Patterson, Jenna Roddick, Candice A. Pollack, Daniel J. Dutton

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

26 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The potential for virtual healthcare to improve access to primary care services in Canada has long been a topic of discussion; however, implementation has been slow despite growing interest among the public. Non-essential service lockdowns implemented in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed rapid and widespread uptake of virtual healthcare delivery. It is important to consider how to maintain equitable access to virtual care following the pandemic. We conducted a narrative scoping review to understand barriers related to the sustained adoption of virtual primary care delivery in Canada. Barriers at the system, healthcare provider, and patient levels were related to digital health infrastructure, and the regulatory environment governing virtual care provision and remuneration for healthcare professionals. The article identifies areas where policy shifts by health system leaders could sustain the longer-term availability of Canadian virtual care services.

Original languageEnglish
JournalHealthcare Management Forum
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2022

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2022 The Canadian College of Health Leaders. All rights reserved.

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Health Policy

PubMed: MeSH publication types

  • Journal Article

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