Doctor as close as phone; Doctors will be paid to take phone calls from their patients starting April 1

Okanagan Saturday - February 23, 2013

It's almost as good as a house call.

The British Columbia government will soon be paying doctors to take telephone calls from their patients.

The province will allow doctors to bill $15 per call, to a maximum of 500 each year starting April 1, as part of its grander scheme to match all patients with a family doctor who want one by 2015.

Read the complete article.

Tips for an Effective Doctor-Patient Relationship

• See your family doctor first for all your health care needs, except in the case of emergencies. If they can’t provide the care you need in their own practice, they can refer you to the right health care professional.

• If you must go to another health care provider, including the hospital or emergency room, tell them who your regular family doctor is. Request that your doctor be sent any instructions or results. Then your doctor will have your complete and accurate medical history.

• Be prepared: make a list of things you want to discuss at your appointment. Be clear about your requirements when booking.

• Be patient: even the most organized doctor will have to deal with unexpected emergencies throughout the day, and you may have to wait for your appointment.

• Communicate openly with your doctor, and expect the same of them.

• Know your medical history; be prepared to tell your doctor about any drugs or supplements you take, steps you’ve taken to deal with your condition(s) etc.

• Make sure you understand the doctor’s instructions before you leave the appointment.

• Follow through on all tests, referrals, medications etc. that your doctor prescribes.

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Doctor as close as phone; Doctors will be paid to take phone calls from their patients starting April 1