American-born Robin Williams, 61, moved from Alberta to Nova Scotia in December 2020.
Williams decided to settle in Nova Scotia with her partner after previously retiring from provincial health care work in Alberta. At the time Williams moved to Nova Scotia, COVID-19 was in full swing and Williams recalled the struggles she faced accessing services she needed. “We almost heard the locks on the gate clanging behind us as we got into Nova Scotia. It was hard to access services at that time. It still is I believe,” recalled Williams.
Upon arriving in Nova Scotia Williams joined the Need a Family Practice Registry and from there was informed about VirtualCareNS – a free, virtual service providing those on the Need a Family Practice Registry with temporary access to nurses and physicians.
Through VirtualCareNS, people on the registry can make a same-day virtual medical appointment with a physician or nurse practitioner for their health care needs. Many Nova Scotian residents are seeing the benefits and convenience this service provides, as are residents who have moved to Nova Scotia from other provinces within Canada.
“This virtual service offer came up. So, I checked it out and got results right away. It was really nice to talk with a doctor, particularly at that time with COVID happening,” said Williams. “I have chronic depression and I needed to get my prescription refilled … through the virtual service I was able to get my medication looked after. It was super important.”
Williams said her experience using VirtualCareNS was efficient, easily accessible, super convenient and provided her with the assurance that her medical needs would be met.
“I was excited that the service was there. It was well organized and coordinated. The access was really good … I was surprised about was how rapid it was from the time I made my request to actually being able to speak with the doctor; it was a pleasant surprise,” said Williams.
Williams commends the doctors, nurses and health care workers running the system and keeping it standing.
Still on the Need a Family Practice Registry herself, Williams urges those who do not have access to a family doctor to give this new, virtual medium a spin.
“I would encourage anyone who has a concern about their health to try VirtualCareNS,” said Williams.
