telemedicine
Different way of delivering care,
but same expectations of practice
College approves expectations for doctors who practise telemedicine
photo: istockphoto.com
R
ecognizing that advancements in technology
are providing opportunities for new approaches to the delivery of care, the College has approved a policy that sets out expectations for
physicians who practise telemedicine.
“The College understands the value of telemedicine. In
particular, we appreciate the way in which it can benefit
patients, physicians and other health-care providers, and
the broader health-care system by improving access to
care,” said Dr. Marc Gabel, College President.
Whether telemedicine is an appropriate way to deliver
patient care, however, will depend on the circumstances of
each case, he added.
The updated Telemedicine policy requires physicians to
evaluate whether care can be delivered in a manner that
enables physicians to satisfy all applicable legal and professional obligations, and meet the standard of care.
This policy applies to all physicians who are members
of the CPSO, regardless of where the physician or patient
is physically located and regardless of the specific area of
practice or pract