Telehealth
What is it?
The Cree Board of Health and Social Services offers a variety of health services designed to help achieve Miyupimaatisiiun, the well-being of Eeyous and Eenous across the Eeyou Istchee.
Telehealth is a new and growing part of our service offer.
While a personal consultation with a physician or specialist is a fundamental part of care, some clients may not be able to travel to see a doctor.
This is where telehealth comes in.
Many clients take advantage of this service. If they can’t take time off work, have mobility issues or simply can’t find replacement caregivers, clients can see a specialist online through telehealth.
The specialists have access to the client's medical charts and a nurse or technician is present during consultation if tests are needed.
Remember: every appointment matters. Keep track of your appointments – whether in-person or online. You can visit our website for more information or refer to our “Keep track of your Appointment” video.
Telehealth uses telecommunications technologies, including two-way video and email, to deliver medical services over a distance. People in Eeyou Istchee have limited access to medical specialists and are often sent to a hospital in Val d'Or, Chibougamau or Montreal for these services.
Telehealth reduces the need for people to travel outside Eeyou Istchee for diagnosis and treatment, and for medical specialists to travel to Eeyou Istchee to meet patients.
What services are included?
With the tele-pacemaker program, you can have follow-up meetings to ensure your implanted cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator is working properly.
The tele-surgery service provides virtual, online consultations prior to general surgery.
The CBHSSJB also offers the following telehealth services:
- Tele-Ophthalmology
- Tele-Obstetrics
- Tele-Psychiatry
- Tele screening for diabetic retinopathy
- Tele internal medicine
- TeleGARE
- Wound and Ostomy
- Telenephrology
- Telepediatrics
- Teleconsultation in Child Psychiatry
- Teleallergy for children (pilot)
Where is it offered?
Tele-ophthalmology and tele-psychiatry are offered through CMCs in all nine communities; tele-obstetrics is based at the Chisasibi Hospital.
How can I get telehealth services?
Contact your local CMC regarding telehealth services.