MediMap – the app that gives you free real-time updates on wait times at walk-in clinics across Canada – is being reviewed by the BC Ministry of Health.
The company is under investigation for offering patients the option to book a spot in line at participating medical clinics for a $5 charge.
According to a CBC report, the co-founder of MediMap, Blake Adam, stated that the service has had a largely positive impact since its implementation in early 2017.
It allows patients to save time and clears up waiting rooms, making the health service process more efficient.
Concerns from the Ministry of Health
The province’s Medical Services Commission will be investigating whether or not the $5 fee is in violation of the extra-billing ban under the Medicare Protection Act.
Adam has argued that the service is perfectly legal, as patients can still be waitlisted to see a doctor for free by calling or physically visiting the clinic. Moreover, the $5 charge is not applied to an insured medical service.
Without the revenue from the fees, MediMap would have to consider other financing options to continue its free wait time update service.
