Cowichan Valley

Community Virtual Care provides remote patient monitoring, education and support to patients with specific health conditions. Any tools and equipment used are loaned at no cost. The monitoring component allows RNs to safely and effectively monitor their patients while they are in their home, and the education component is designed to improve the patient’s self-management abilities. RNs deliver programs virtually 7 days a week from 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM, assessing clients over the phone at least twice a day to monitor symptoms, connect clients with other services and ensure they're seeking urgent medical care as required. The following programs are offered:

Chronic Disease Management Program is a 12-week support and education program for people diagnosed with:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder
• Diabetes (prediabetes and type 2)
• Heart Failure
• Hypertension

Acute Illness Support uses remote patient monitoring equipment (provided) and the phone to support people with mild to moderate symptoms of the following conditions:

• RSV
• Influenza
• COVID-19
• Heat-related illness
• Smoke inhalation (wildfires)

Virtual Supportive Care Program provides supportive care for people diagnosed with life-limiting or palliative conditions. RNs provide support to manage symptoms, meet goals for care and cope with changing health needs

Caregiver Support Program uses virtual care technologies to support caregivers to set goals and build a personal plan focusing on optimizing emotional wellbeing and enhancing coping skills. The time-limited program includes three service streams:

• Brief one-to-one counselling
• Group counselling and/or
• Skill-building group

Suitability:The CVC program is particularly suitable for adults aged 19+ who are frail, elderly, at risk of further decline and/or immunocompromised. Clients who live in Assisted Living or Independent Living sites are welcome

Referral Information: Professional (see below for dedicated line information), family or self referrals can be made through Community Health Access Services. Call the regional number below for those individuals over the age of 19 who have a diagnosis of:

• COPD, CKD, diabetes, heart failure, hypertension; or
• Mild to moderate symptoms of influenza, COVID-19, heat-related illness, wildfire smoke inhalation; or
• A progressive, palliative illness; or
• You are a family caregiver