Health care is a cornerstone of Canadian identity. Not only because Canadian health care professionals are among the best in the world, but because, as a nation, Canadians believe that access to health care is a fundamental human right.
Today, British Columbians in rural, remote, and First Nations communities increasingly face health outcome inequality due to staffing shortages, resource constraints, and aging demographics.
The Real-Time Virtual Support (RTVS) program gives rural health care professionals instant access to specialist doctors, which means that patients receive the care they need right in their own community. With over 3,000 calls per month and serving more than 150 communities, it has become an integral component of rural health care in BC, saving patients and families $34 million in medical costs over five years.
RTVS is a critical program that helps bridge the health equity gap for rural and First Nations communities, and we need your voice to ensure it remains available to the people who need it most.
Eliminating the need to travel for care means treatment can be provided at a fraction of the cost to patients, their families, and the health care system.
A commitment to sustainable, equitable, and reliable funding for RTVS will ensure the program can continue to be delivered in its current structure and restore maternity and pediatric supports impacted by recent service reductions.
If you believe health care professionals in BC should have access to RTVS to deliver quality care to people when they need it, and where they need it, sign your name and share this message with your community.
Disclaimer: Personal identifying information of signatories will not be used for marketing purposes, sold to third parties, or posted publicly in any form. Names and contact information will be shared with trusted government agencies exclusively for advocacy purposes.