Important: This article is general information, not medical advice. Virtual care is not appropriate for every concern. For a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Before you book
Start by considering whether your concern could safely begin with a virtual conversation. A virtual appointment can be useful for many non-urgent questions, but it is not intended for emergencies. If you have severe symptoms, possible emergency symptoms, or are unsure whether it is safe to wait, seek immediate in-person help instead.
When you send a request, read the clinic’s current privacy and coverage information carefully. Coverage and service suitability should not be assumed; the clinic may need to confirm details before any next step is arranged.
Choose a private, practical setting
Choose a quiet, well-lit space where you can speak openly and focus on the conversation. A private location and secure, password-protected internet connection are generally preferable to public Wi-Fi. Keep your device charged, and sign in a few minutes early if the clinic provides a video link.
Do not drive during a virtual appointment. If possible, position the camera at eye level and reduce interruptions. A family member or caregiver may be able to join if that is appropriate for you and the clinical conversation.
Have these details ready for the care conversation
Bring your Alberta Personal Health Card if applicable, a current list of medications, vitamins, and supplements, the name and location of your pharmacy, and a short summary of the symptoms or question you want to discuss. It can also help to write down when the concern started, what has changed, and any questions you do not want to forget.
Keep those details for the clinician conversation, not a general public web form. The provider may ask where you are during the visit and how to reach you if the connection ends. Having your current location and a backup phone number ready can help the clinic respond if a virtual visit is interrupted or your care needs to change.
Know the next step after the call
Take notes during the conversation. After the visit, review any care instructions you receive and ask the clinic if something is unclear. A care plan may include monitoring, a follow-up visit, a prescription, testing, a referral, or in-person assessment, depending on the clinical situation.
If symptoms worsen or you develop urgent symptoms after the visit, do not wait for a routine follow-up. Call 911 for a medical emergency. If you are unsure where to go, contact an appropriate in-person healthcare professional or care setting for individual guidance.
Common patient questions.
Ready to start? For an eligible non-emergency concern, start your visit form when you are ready; the clinic reviews each request. Call 911 for an emergency or seek prompt professional assessment when a concern cannot wait.
What should I submit online before a virtual doctor request?
Use AlbertaMD’s public form only for callback, location, and eligibility details. Keep health-card numbers, medication details, symptoms, allergies, health history, images, forms, and questions for the clinician conversation instead of entering them in the public request.
Does preparing for a virtual visit confirm an appointment?
Preparation can make a clinician conversation more focused. A request starts clinic review, and the clinic contacts you about the next step; care and coverage decisions depend on review.
Continue with related Alberta guides.
These patient guides add context on virtual care, care navigation, and next-step preparation.
Learn more from Alberta resources.
These public resources offer additional context on virtual-care preparation, safety, and professional standards.
Ready to see a doctor?
Request a doctor call today.
For non-emergency health concerns only. For requests submitted during open hours, the clinic reviews each request and contacts you about the next step.