Researchers have said there can significant benefits from online medical visits or telephone appointments for patients, as they reduce costs, travel time and can be quicker than in-person visits. Now, some medical staff in British Columbia and Nova Scotia are looking at the environmental benefits of virtual care. With fewer people travelling to medical appointments by car or public transit, some say online or telephone appointments could continue to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions post-pandemic. A Canadian Medical Association (CMA) survey released last June suggested 47 per cent of Canadians used virtual care such as calls, email, texts or video during the pandemic. Environmental benefits of telemedicineEven before the pandemic, studies have shown that telemedicine can reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Source: CBC News April 19, 2021 07:52 UTC