Patient resources

Prepare for a successful virtual visit with a health care provider.
​​Content on this page applies to PHSA and regional health authorities using​ Microsoft Teams for virtual visits.

Access detailed resources you can use to support your virtual visit using Microsoft Teams. 
Prepare for a visit

Before your virtual visit 

Make sure your device is charged, and your internet connection is working. Find a quiet, private place with no interruptions. Join the virtual visit session by clicking the link sent to you by email. We encourage you to join the virtual visit a few minutes early so you can input your name and check your sound and video. 

What happens during a virtual visit? 

A virtual visit is similar to an in-person appointment. During the visit you can: 

  • Talk about your concerns with your health care provider
  • Show your health care provider any rash, wound, or affected area
  • Ask questions you may have about your care 

Your health care provider can: 

  • Listen to your story and respect your knowledge
  • Ask questions to understand your concern fully
  • With your permission, examine the affected area
  • Invite you to move in ways that support assessment
  • Talk with you about a care plan that includes your input and values 
  • Support access to specialists, Elders, or traditional healers if desired 
  • Offer advice based on your preferences and goals 
  • Explain medications clearly and respectfully (if needed) 
  • Help you access prescriptions in a way that works for you


Download the app

If you are joining from a desktop computer or laptop, you can join a virtual visit from a web browser. However, we strongly encourage you to download the Microsoft Teams app for the best experience. If joining from a cell phone or tablet, you will be required to download the Microsoft app. 

Download MS Teams on a computer 

  1. Go to the Microsoft Teams website. Open your internet browser and go to: www.microsoft.com/en-ca/microsoft-teams/download-app 
  2. Click the “Download for desktop” button. This will start downloading the Teams app to your computer. 
  3. Open the downloaded file. Find the file in your Downloads folder and double-click it to start the installation. 
  4. Follow the instructions on the screen. The app will guide you through the steps to install it. 
  5. Sign in or join a meeting. Once installed, open the app. You can sign in with your email if you have an account or click a meeting link from your clinic to join directly. 

After downloading the app: Once you’ve downloaded the app you will be asked to sign into or create a Microsoft account. 

Download MS Teams on a cell phone or tablet 

  1. Open the App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Google Play Store (Android). 
  2. Tap the store icon on your home screen. 
  3. Search for “Microsoft Teams”. Type it into the search bar and look for the app with a purple “T” logo. 
  4. Tap “Download” or “Install”. Wait for the app to finish installing. 
  5. Open the app. Tap the Teams icon once it’s installed. 
  6. Sign in or join a meeting. You can sign in with your email or tap a meeting link from your clinic to join without signing in. 

After downloading the app: Once you’ve downloaded the app you will be asked to sign into or create a Microsoft account. ​

​For best results

  • ​Use the MS Teams application on a computer with a stable network connection. 
  • If you use a mobile phone: Use the MS Teams mobile app.  
  • If you use a wireless device: Sit close to the router to receive the strongest signal. 
  • Avoid using the MS Teams web version / website as it has reduced functionality and stability. 
  • Restart the modem/router if your internet connection seems slow. 
  • Limit internet bandwidth consumption on your device. For example:   
    • Close other applications such as unused internet browsers, games, business applications or streaming services. 
    • Cancel or pause downloads or background application updates. 
    • ​​Turn off any Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections. 

Additional troubleshooting tips 

  • ​If your video keeps freezing or the audio is choppy, turn off your camera to help reduce the internet bandwidth consumption and improve call quality. 
  • Make sure your headset, microphone, and camera are plugged in and working before your visit. 
  • Turn on noise suppression in MS Teams to reduce background sounds (Settings>Devices). 
  • Avoid using virtual backgrounds or blurring your background to reduce internet bandwidth consumption. 

Technical support 

Contact your health care provider or health clinic using the contact information provided in your invite. 

 


Join a virtual visit

Follow the instructions below or refer to our printable resource (PDF).

Open the virtual visit email you received

  • Click the Join the Meeting Now link to start the meeting.
    • If you don’t have the Microsoft Teams app installed on your computer, click continue on this browser.
    • Alternative: you can join by phone (audio only) by calling the telephone number provided in your meeting invite and enter the phone conference ID.

Join the virtual visit

  • A pop-up window may appear
    • Select allow to let Microsoft Teams use your mic and camera if prompted
  • Turn on the camera and mic
    • Adjust your background effects (optional)
  • Enter your name and click “Join Now”

On the Teams meeting

  • After you join you will enter into a virtual waiting room
  • You will be automatically admitted by the health care provider



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