Provinces Urged to Approach Corporate Virtual Care Partnerships Cautiously

Provincial governments in Canada are being urged to exercise caution when entering partnerships with for-profit virtual health care companies. An analysis published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal highlights the potential risks associated with these collaborations, particularly concerning public trust in the health care system. At least four provinces have already engaged with corporate virtual care providers to enhance access to primary care through services delivered via video, phone, and text messaging.

Dr. Lauren Lapointe-Shaw, a clinician-scientist and associate professor at the Temerty Faculty of Medicine and the Institute for Health Policy, Management and Evaluation at the University of Toronto, co-authored the article. She notes that “there are risks associated with direct-to-consumer virtual ‘walk-in’ style care related to access, quality of care, and data privacy.” These risks necessitate thorough consideration by provincial governments as they explore formal partnerships, which may inadvertently reinforce corporate virtual care within the Canadian health care landscape.

Exploring the Landscape of Virtual Care Partnerships

The authors of the analysis outline the varying approaches taken by provinces regarding corporate partnerships in virtual care. They emphasize the need for a balanced view that considers both the benefits and potential pitfalls of such collaborations. Notably, concerns have been raised about maintaining health care quality standards, ensuring data privacy, and promoting transparency surrounding contracts, funding, and profits.

A critical aspect of these partnerships is the government’s responsibility to safeguard public health interests. The authors stress that once corporate programs are integrated into the health care system, it may be challenging to adjust or dismantle them. “There is a need for caution before greenlighting corporations in the public health care sector,” they warn. Without appropriate regulatory frameworks, there is a risk that companies may be left to self-regulate, which could hinder necessary changes.

Balancing Innovation with Accountability

As the landscape of health care continues to evolve, the analysis calls for a careful evaluation of how virtual care is implemented. With the rise of digital health solutions, ensuring that these innovations serve the public interest remains paramount. By prioritizing patient care and data security, provincial governments can help maintain the integrity of the health care system while exploring new avenues for improving access.

The full findings are detailed in the article “Government partnerships with corporate virtual primary care,” published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal in 2025. For more information, refer to DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.250639. As the dialogue surrounding virtual care partnerships continues, the emphasis on caution and accountability will be vital for fostering public trust and ensuring high-quality health services.