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    The Renfrew County VTAC patient experience

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    A step-by-step snapshot of what to expect

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    Step 1

    If you have a health concern and do not have a family physician or nurse practitioner or cannot access your regular primary care provider, call VTAC at 1-844-727-6404.

    *If you think you or somebody with you may be experiencing a life-threatening emergency such as a suspected heart attack, suspected stroke, major bleeding, reduced consciousness or severe breathing problems, call 9-1-1 immediately.

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    Step 2

    Your call will be answered by a medical receptionist who will ask you a series of questions to gather basic details.

    *Please note that it is helpful if you have your Ontario health card ready when you call.

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    Step 3

    When required, the receptionist will be able to book you in for a telephone appointment with a VTAC family physician, typically on the same day that you call.

    You will be given an approximate appointment time.

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    Step 4

    You will be asked to be available for the appointment 30 minutes before and after the booked time.

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    Step 5

    The doctor will call you at the number you provided to the medical receptionist. If a video connection is required, then the doctor will send you an email or text with the access.

    *If you’re booked for a telephone appointment, please have your computer switched on and ready to use (if possible) in case the doctor recommends using video during your assessment.

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    Step 6

    The doctor will provide you with a consultation via telephone or video to address your health concern.

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    Step 7

    Based on your care needs, the doctor may arrange for you to attend one of the VTAC Clinical Assessment Centres (CACs) located across Renfrew County. Here you will see a community paramedic in-person with a doctor available by video. Additional digital equipment is available at CACs for more detailed physical examination by the paramedic or a combination of the paramedic and the doctor. There is limited availability at some CACs on some days for an assessment to be made in-person by a VTAC family physician. For vulnerable, housebound patients, VTAC family physicians may ask a community paramedic to visit you at home for an assessment.

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    Step 8

    The doctor may also determine that a referral for specialist care is required, such as cardiology or orthopedics, or other local health resources such as mental health services or home and community care.

    *Please note:

    • If your symptoms worsen before your appointment, call back the Renfrew County Virtual Triage and Assessment Centre.
    • If your symptoms become a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 immediately.