In addition, we recognize that the widespread deployment of virtual care should not exacerbate pre-existing inequities in the broader health system. In particular, there is a need to ensure that virtual care is embedded in health care systems in such a way that is integrated and supports publicly-funded health care. Visit for more information
Better with age
In exploring domestic and international best practices, we found that the development of an overarching vision and governance for virtual care, and shifting to patient- and caregiver-centred design of care to be critical enablers of equity. Other critical enablers include having access to high-quality data and evidence to support equitable design of virtual care, interoperability and a commitment to the promotion of continuity of care.
Moving forward: Our recommendations for a principle-based framework
Based on the examination of barriers to equitable virtual care access and best practices, the Equity Task Team suggests that equity should be a critical foundational element for the design of virtual care. To this end, a Principle-based vision for equitable virtual care is proposed that can serve as a unifying framework for system design. The vision is arranged in five core domains:
Based on the proposed Design Principles, the Equity Task Team recommends that FPT governments in collaboration with a broad range of stakeholders, including patients, providers, and Indigenous groups establish a pan-Canadian Digital Health Equity Working Group, with a mandate to align jurisdictions around a common effort to drive progress on enhancing equitable access to virtual care. This Working Group will be tasked with coordinating efforts and working with relevant partners at a pan-Canadian level to implement the specific recommendations under each of the five Design Principles. The pan-Canadian Digital Health Equity Working Group would report to the FPT Virtual Care/Digital Table to ensure alignment with the broader virtual care agenda..ns: