In this uncertain time, we’re still here to help
Like all of you, Green Shield Canada (GSC) is watching closely as the situation with COVID-19 continues to evolve. We understand that you and many of your friends and family members are feeling uneasy, especially as we face changes to our daily routines and are unsure of what the future may bring. GSC is here to help you look after your health and well-being.
We have a number of digital health care options available that enable you to consult a physician, mental health professional, pharmacist, or health coach. Coverage for these services may or may not be available under your benefits plan – check your benefits coverage information to be sure.
Talk to a doctor online with Maple
With social isolation and distancing part of our lives right now, Maple allows you to instantly connect with a Canadian-licensed doctor for medical care from your phone, tablet, or computer – any time, 24/7/365. Many common medical conditions can be treated online, including allergies, asthma, cold and flu, infections, pink eye, sore throat, and many more. You can receive diagnoses, prescriptions, and lab requisitions as necessary during your online consultation.
Visit getmaple.ca/greenshield to sign up for your account. You just need your date of birth and your GSC ID number handy. Even though Maple likely isn’t covered under your benefits plan, you will receive a discounted rate simply for being a GSC plan member – reducing your out-of-pocket cost.
You can access Maple through any modern web browser and, if you have an iPhone/iPad or Android device, you can download the Maple mobile app. Once you’ve set up your account, you’re ready to request a consultation with a doctor.
Additionally, Maple’s free online COVID-19 screening program is available if you are an Ontario resident with active provincial coverage. This service allows you to safely receive provincially covered screening from the comfort of your home. If you have a valid OHIP card, you can talk to a doctor through video chat about your symptoms and receive guidance on whether you need testing or emergency care. Wait times for this service will vary.
Access BEACON – guided digital therapy that works… anytime, anywhere
The arrival of COVID-19 has brought uncertainty and isolation. If you’re feeling stressed or anxious or you’re having difficulty sleeping, BEACON may be helpful. Available to you and your dependents (age 16 and over), BEACON is an effective, easy-to-access way to receive personalized cognitive behavioural therapy guided by an experienced, regulated, mental health professional. It’s a fully digital program, so your therapy happens anywhere and anytime that’s comfortable for you – and you may even have coverage under your benefits plan. Even if it’s not covered, it is offered to GSC plan members at special discounted rates. After registering online, you can access BEACON anytime via the web or app using your computer or mobile device.
To find out whether BEACON is right for you, just visit mindbeacon.com and click on “Start My Assessment.” You’ll be guided through the steps to complete your personal assessment.
BEACON has also recently launched free resources and links to BEACON therapy, including helpful advice and a new ability to treat health anxiety through therapist-assisted, digital therapy. This is available in English and French.
Visit an online pharmacy with PocketPills
No need to leave home to visit your community pharmacy. From discussions with a pharmacist to refilling prescriptions to ongoing disease management, PocketPills provides the full pharmacy experience digitally. Using a mobile app, you can instantly connect with a pharmacist or manage your medications online. Low prescription dispensing fees, personalized packaging, and free home delivery round out this convenient service. Get started by visiting pocketpills.com.
Exercise your body, and mind, at home
GSC has various strategies for helping you stay/get active – especially as you may find you have more time to dedicate to exercising at the moment. Coach Ivan, GSC’s digital exercise coach, is standing by at https://www.greenshield.ca/en-ca/coachivan and can create a personalized video for you with a recommended action plan based on your current activity level and interests. (Bear in mind Coach Ivan filmed his segments prior to the concept of social distancing, so use your current awareness to consider his suggestions for group activity.)
And if you have access to the Change4Life® health portal (via Online Services), check out GSC’s Mindfulness Program, which is designed for better management of stress and anxiety, as well as chronic pain and depression.
Explore remote delivery of other health services
To ensure your health care needs are met and to allow you to continue to use your benefits – even in this new reality – we have expanded the claim types we will accept when delivered remotely. GSC already accepted such claims for dietitian services, mental health services, and speech therapy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, starting March 20, we are also allowing claims for virtual (video-delivered via Skype, Zoom, etc.) chiropractic services, naturopath services, occupational therapy, chiropodist/podiatrist services, physiotherapy, and emergency dental assessments (completed over the telephone or via video). Claims for all of these provider types must clearly indicate that the service was delivered remotely via video. Eligibility for these services is based on your current plan guidelines.
Remember…
Take care of your mental and physical health – we’re all in this together.
