Patients who've used the service turn in positive testimonials as the FNHA program passes one-year anniversary
Patients of
the First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day service are so pleased with the care they received that some want others to know about it.
Bobby White and
Bobbi Tatoosh shared their personal stories with the FNHA to encourage anyone who does not have ready access to a doctor to book an appointment.
“The thing I liked best about the service is that it was really easy to use, and quick," said White.
White's video inspired a response from one person on Facebook, who said the service saved his life.
“They called the ambulance and explained that I needed to go to the hospital right away," said the Facebook user. “My ICU doctor said if I waited until morning I probably wouldn't have made it."
The First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day service launched across BC last April as a pilot project in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The now permanent service is open to all First Nations people in BC and their family members, including family members who are not Indigenous.
More than 95 per cent of people who have attended appointments say they have been pleased with the service and would recommend it to others.
“The service made me feel so welcome, like I was listened to," said Tatoosh. “It was a simple process, and I recommend it to everyone."
The COVID-19 pandemic has created additional challenges for Indigenous people who already face barriers to accessing culturally-safe health care. First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day is patient-centred and offers a wholistic approach to treatment. It is not intended to replace existing primary care supports but to build relationships to promote continuity, coordination and quality of care for clients.
If you have friends or family who need to see a doctor and can't get an appointment, encourage them to contact the service. Doctors are available by video or phone from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. seven days a week, including holidays.
First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day Patient Experience videos:
