To use VirtualCareNS, you need to:
Have a valid Nova Scotia health card number.
If you are new to the province, you cannot use VirtualCareNS until you have received your physical health card.
Be able to access the internet through a computer or mobile device.
Have an e-mail address.
Be located within the province when accessing VirtualCareNS.
If you are requesting a visit for a child or a dependent, they need to be at the virtual visit. You can't get care for a patient who is not at the virtual visit.
VirtualCareNS offers two options, Full Care and Basic Care.
Full Care (Nova Scotia licensed family doctors and nurse practitioners)
Full Care is only available to Nova Scotians without a family doctor or nurse practitioner who are on the Need a Family Practice Registry.
Full Care providers can give you healthcare advice, prescribe medications, order tests (like bloodwork, X-rays, etc) and refer you to specialists and in-person care.
Full Care hours of operation are kept up to date at VirtualCareNS.ca.
If you do not have a family doctor or nurse practitioner and are not on the Need a Family Practice Registry, you can register online at needafamilypractice.nshealth.ca or call 811 from Monday to Friday between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Basic Care (Canadian licensed family doctors and nurse practitioners)
Nova Scotians without a family doctor or nurse practitioner have access to Basic Care as needed.
Nova Scotians with a family doctor or nurse practitioner have two free Basic Care visits within the calendar year, and do not have access to Full Care.
Basic Care offers basic healthcare advice or prescription renewals (except controlled substances).
Basic Care cannot order tests or refer you to specialists or in-person primary health care.
This option is available 24/7/365.
If you have questions about VirtualCareNS, please contact 1-888-755-8555 or [email protected].
If you have questions about the Need a Family Practice Registry, please contact at [email protected] or 1-833-396-0541.