Shoppers Drug Mart launches virtual care service

TORONTO — Shoppers Drug Mart, in partnership with technology platform Maple, has launched a virtual care service for patients to help relieve the current burden on the acute health care system, specifically emergency rooms and hospitals. Where virtual care is not funded by provincial governments, Shoppers will fund online physician consultations at no cost to patients, providing access to care while following public health guidelines. The service will be available at no cost from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. until March 23,  in an effort to help flatten the COVID-19 curve.

The service will be available nationwide by visiting www.shoppersdrugmart.ca. The virtual primary care visits will include diagnosing minor ailments and providing prescriptions for those who are unable to get access to a physician. The service allows Canadians to connect with a physician using a smart phone, tablet or computer. Consultations can be done through an app or website, by text, video or audio chat.

“At Shoppers Drug Mart our primary goal is to help Canadians live life well and that matters now more than ever.  In an effort to help flatten the curve, we’re doing everything we can to support Canadians while encouraging social distancing,” said Shoppers president Jeff Leger. “Through this partnership, we are removing the barrier to virtual access to physicians, providing safer access to care for both patients and physicians.”

“There has never been a greater need for this type of service than right now,” says Dr. Brett Belchetz, CEO of Maple and a practicing ER physician. “This partnership with Shoppers Drug Mart will help ensure Canadians are armed with the tools they need to remain safe and healthy during this time.”

Maple  tackles issues in health care, starting with timely and convenient access to doctors and other providers. It allows patients to connect directly with doctors for medical care in minutes from their smartphone or computer 24/7, and also provides custom technology solutions for hospitals and clinics seeking to advance their delivery of care. More information is available at getmaple.ca.