Survey finds half of Canadians don’t know how to find virtual-care services
More than half (55 per cent) of Canadians said they don’t know how to find virtual-care services, according to a survey by Sun Life Canada’s online health network Lumino Health.
Half (49 per cent) of survey respondents reported the coronavirus pandemic is having negative effects on their physical health and nearly 60 per cent reported mental-health impacts. Despite these findings, only 21 per cent said they’ve sought professional care.
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“The need for Canadians to connect virtually with health-care professionals has never been more important,” said Chris Denys, senior vice-president of possibilities at Lumino Health, in a press release. “As physical distancing continues, it’s our goal to bring Canadians the tools and resources they need to manage their health from home.”
Although many Canadians are unsure where to access virtual care, awareness is high, at 72 per cent. And, when asked what they believe are the main benefits of virtual care, survey respondents listed convenience (54 per cent); no waiting rooms (50 per cent); and speed to connect with a health-care professional (40 per cent).
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