Virtual physician visits to become permanent for Albertans

Effective immediately: The new billing codes introduced for virtual care in response to the COVID-19 pandemic are to remain permanent. Thus, all existing rules will remain in place.

FAQ:

• These permanent billing codes include: patient visit, consultations, and mental health services provided over the phone or via video conference

• In-person physician and specialist visits will continue to be available, however virtual appointments may be offered when it is appropriate to do so

• These codes are not subject to the daily patient cap

• The details of the changes can be found here on Bulletin 231

• Rates will vary and depend on the specialty on service, these rates will be the same as in-person rates

information sourced from: Alberta Health

For the press release: Global News