eConsult

What is eConsult?

eConsult is a secure web-based tool that allows physician or nurse practitioner timely access to specialist advice for all patients and often eliminates the need for an in-person specialist visit.

  • eConsult BASE™  Managed Specialty Model
    • eConsults are sent to a group of specialists from across the province in a specific specialty and each case is assigned to a specific specialist by a case assigner.
    • Over 130 specialties offered province-wide
  • Direct to Specialist model:
    • eConsults are sent to individual specialists/groups by searching in a directory.

Is being an eConsult specialist right for me?

Specialists enrolled with Ontario eConsult are expected to:

  • Have a desire to improve equitable access
  • Be experienced practitioners in good standing with their regulatory body
  • Respond to requesting provider questions within 7 days (median response time is 1 day)
  • Have an interest in providing collegial, educational replies
  • Contribute to a community of practice with physicians and nurse practitioners in their region

* Reference: Keely, E., Williams, R., Epstein, G., Afkham, A, et Liddy, C. (2018). Specialist Perspectives on Ontario Electronic Consultation Services, Telemedicine and e-Health.

(view the infographic)

I feel I have saved many face to face consults. Most of those would require a lot of time and waiting for patients, yet I only need 5 minutes to answer the question. This is very good, patient centred care.” 
-Specialist, Champlain region

How do I sign up?

To view the sign up process click here.  To be contacted by your regional deployment team, please fill out our intake form.

What options do specialists have to provide eConsult services?

  • All eligible specialists are able to provide eConsults through Ontario eConsult direct to specialist option accessed through the OTNhub.ca.
  • Some specialists (depending on geographical region, identified need, personal preference) will join a eConsult BASE™ managed specialty group where cases will be assigned to them.

How are specialists compensated for providing an eConsult?

  • The service is available at no cost to the patient and the provider
  • Specialists providing services on eConsult are paid an hourly rate, pro-rated based on the length of time it takes to complete an eConsult.
  • Providers receiving a salary or paid through alternate funding arrangements may not receive additional compensation for using eConsult.

How do I provide an eConsult?

For a quick PDF guide on how to provide an eConsult click here.

For more detailed instructions on how to provide an eConsult click here.

Resources for Specialists:

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