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Virtual urgent care is taking off at hospitals across the province and licensed practical nurse (LPN) Jordyn Babineau is excited to be on the front line helping patients at the South Cumberland Community Care Centre.
Jordyn joined Nova Scotia Health two and a half years ago and recently stepped into a permanent role supporting virtual urgent care in South Cumberland.
The service connects patients virtually with physicians and nurse practitioners through secure technology, supported by local healthcare staff who guide patients through each step of the visit. It provides timely access to care for urgent, non-life-threatening health needs, including coughs, colds, sore throats, infections, minor aches and injuries, and some prescription renewals. It also helps fill gaps when local emergency departments are busy or temporarily closed.
“I’ve only been part of the virtual urgent care team for about a month, but I already see how much it helps people,” says Jordyn. “It’s fulfilling to remove barriers and make healthcare more convenient. Many of the patients I see live in rural areas or have mobility challenges. Virtual urgent care lets them receive timely, high-quality care without unnecessary travel.”
When patients arrive at the South Cumberland site, Jordyn greets them after they’re triaged, explains what to expect, and completes an initial assessment before setting them up for their virtual appointment. Once the patient is in a private room, a physician or nurse practitioner appears on screen to begin the visit.
“Some patients are nervous at first, especially those who haven’t used technology much, but we reassure them that we handle everything,” she explains. “They don’t need to touch the iPad or worry about how it works. Once they see how simple it is, they’re really happy with the experience.”
Jordyn and her colleagues remain close by during each appointment in case the provider needs assistance. The on-site team can take blood pressure readings, collect samples, print labs, or imaging requisitions as requested by the virtual provider.
“We collaborate closely with our registered nurses and the virtual providers,” says Jordyn. “It is a real team effort. The technology connects patients to care, but we’re still there in person to make sure they’re comfortable and supported.”
At the South Cumberland site, the virtual urgent care team operates Monday through Saturday. Nurses and virtual providers located elsewhere in Canada support the service.
“We’ve seen more people try it since expanding our hours,” she says. “Once they understand how it works, they often tell friends or family. Word of mouth is helping the community see that this is a real, effective option for care.”
For Jordyn, what stands out most is the connection she builds with patients and the reassurance she can offer to people who may have felt hesitant to seek help through this option.
“Many people think virtual urgent care means care that’s less personal, but that’s not true,” she says. “Patients still have staff with them in person, and the provider can see and speak with them face-to-face. It’s very human, and it really makes a difference for people who might otherwise have to drive long distances or delay seeking care.”
That blend of technology and teamwork is what makes Jordyn proud to be part of the service. “Virtual urgent care is real care,” she shares. “We deliver it safely, compassionately and close to home.”
Virtual urgent care is offered at many locations across Nova Scotia. To check availability in your area and their hours of operation, visit: nshealth.ca/virtual-urgent-care.
Photo of Jordyn Babineau, LPN.