Virtual Doctor Visits Now Available in Nanaimo and Parksville

Accessing timely medical care has become increasingly difficult across Vancouver Island, especially for older adults. Long wait times, limited availability, and a shortage of family doctors have left many seniors feeling frustrated and uncertain about where to turn when they need help.

But a new local service is helping to bridge that gap.

Through a partnership with Avee Health, The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy locations in Nanaimo (Departure Bay) and Parksville are now offering same-day virtual visits with licensed BC doctors—making healthcare more accessible, convenient, and stress-free.

A Growing Challenge for Seniors

If you or someone you know has tried to book a medical appointment recently, you’ve likely experienced the challenges firsthand. Many residents across Nanaimo and Parksville are facing:

• Weeks-long waits to see a doctor
• Difficulty finding a family physician
• Fully booked walk-in clinics
• Long emergency room wait times

For seniors, these barriers can be more than just inconvenient, they can delay care, increase anxiety, and impact overall health and wellbeing.

A Local Solution: Virtual Medical Visits

The Medicine Shoppe has introduced a practical, easy-to-use alternative: virtual doctor visits right from your local pharmacy.

This service allows patients to connect with a licensed BC physician by phone or video, often on the same day. Whether you need a prescription renewal, a medical note, or a lab requisition, help is now much closer than you might think.

Best of all, this service is covered by MSP (Medical Services Plan), meaning there is no additional cost for most patients.

Why Seniors Are Choosing This Service

This new option is designed with convenience and comfort in mind, especially for older adults who may find traditional access points challenging.

Here’s what makes it stand out:
• Same-day access to care
• No family doctor required
• Private, secure consultations
• One-stop care experience from doctor consultation to pharmacy support
• Personalized assistance from pharmacists

For many seniors, this means fewer trips, less waiting, and quicker peace of mind.

How It Works

Getting started is simple and fully supported by pharmacy staff:

1. Visit or call your local Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy
2. Book a virtual appointment (staff can assist, or you can book online)
3. Speak with a licensed BC doctor by phone or video
4. Have your prescription filled on-site or delivered—often at no extra cost
   Pharmacy teams are available to guide you through every step, ensuring the process is smooth and comfortable—even if you’re not familiar with technology.

Care When You Need It Most

This service is ideal if you:
• Need medical advice but can’t see your doctor soon
• Do not have a family doctor
• Require prescription renewals or minor care support
• Prefer a quicker, more convenient healthcare experience

It’s not meant to replace emergency care, but for many everyday health needs, it offers a reliable and accessible alternative.

Supporting Health Across the Community

At its core, this initiative is about improving access to care for everyone—especially seniors who may be navigating complex healthcare needs.

By combining the expertise of licensed physicians with the trusted, community-based support of local pharmacists, this service creates a seamless healthcare experience—right where you already go for support.

Visit Your Local Medicine Shoppe

If you or a loved one could benefit from easier access to medical care, consider visiting The Medicine Shoppe:

The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy
4186A Departure Bay Road
Nanaimo
Phone: 250-760-0073

The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy
192 Island Highway W
Parkesville
Phone: 250-248-6695

Healthcare should be accessible, timely, and stress-free.
With virtual doctor visits now available locally, getting the care you need has never been easier. It’s a faster, simpler way for seniors to access healthcare!