- For an insured remote service, the patient must consent.
- The service must not require an in-person examination or support.
- In-person follow-up must be available.
What conditions apply to an insured remote service?
The guide lists four:
- the patient consents to the consultation being given remotely;
- the service does not involve an examination or support that must be in person;
- a contingency plan exists in case of problems with the technology used;
- in-person follow-up can be offered to the patient.
How does the pharmacist decide?
They first determine whether the situation is compatible with a remote consultation, notably based on your preference and the reason for consulting. You may ask for an in-person appointment if you prefer, where the pharmacy offers the service.
Is my privacy protected?
The guide asks that the consultation take place in a location and with tools that ensure confidentiality, such as a closed room and a secure connection.
What are the limits?
The guide recognizes the limits of remote consultation, such as sound and image quality, and asks pharmacists to reduce these risks. It also asks for service of equivalent quality to that given in person.
For pharmacies
- Decide which services can be given remotely, and which cannot.
- Write the contingency plan and the path for moving to in-person care.
- Check the tools used, including what they do with information. See our article on AI and Law 25.
Sources: OPQ, practice guide on prescribing (in French) · OPQ, practice guide on prescribing (in French)
General information based on the publications cited. This text does not replace professional or legal advice, or the Ordre’s guides.