Miracle of miracles. Thanks to COVID, having an appointment with our Ottawa urologist is much easier these days. COVID seemed to make a difference to these issues. This, from Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP):
Effective December 1, 2022, the Schedule of Benefits (the Schedule) has been amended to reflect the new virtual care funding framework, as set out in the PSA and communicated in INFOBulletin 221002.
At the beginning, our Ottawa urologist switched over to treatments (the Lupron injection) three times a year in Perth, and once a year in Ottawa. Then, things changed. No more phone consults as OHIP's remuneration went from $37 to ↓$15 payments per phone 'visit'). Something changed again.
There is a new schedule of fees: Virtual Care 1: Comprehensive and Limited Virtual Care Services.
They offered us the annual check in on Zoom. What's not to love? Our Perth GP has been great having their office monitor the PSA, and the upcoming bone density scan. He is the quarterback.
Virtual Visit
The trick is that they ask you to sign in 30 minutes prior to the meeting. On we went at 3:15. Joseph Brian had to use my computer, as we had issues with his iPad. He played cards while I watched a TV Christmas movie!
This is so much simpler, rather than a 90-minute drive into Ottawa, not to mention having to work in meals. Dr. C. connected by 4:13, which isn't too bad! Then we found we were muted, and the camera was off. Familiar tale! All fixed, there he was!
During the Zoom call, he asked about JB's symptoms, but there are no changes in symptoms, which is good.
Last year's bone density test (Dec. 2022) shows low bone mass fracture risk is low, though. Dr. C asked if he is still taking calcium and Vit. D supplements, as well as Alendronate once a week. It won't improve his bone density, but it does slow the deterioration. It is a drug meant for osteoporosis.
Will have a follow-up, another Zoom in 6 months.
The cancer is well-controlled, at this point. Has to see Dr. C once every two years, according to OHIP rules.
Joseph Brian walks daily for about an hour, most days. It is an excellent workout.
walking from Jennifer Jilks on Vimeo.
