Yes, referrals from licensed online doctors are legitimate because they follow the same medical standards as in-person care. Specialists and insurers accept them as long as the physician is certified and the referral includes the following clinical information: 

• Details about your medical condition and treatment
• The date of reference
• The signature of the referring doctor

It depends on the availability of the specialist you’re booking with. While we provide your referral letter within 5 minutes, actual wait times vary based on location, specialty, and urgency. Some patients are seen within a week, while others may wait several weeks, depending on the clinic.

Yes, your specialist visit is billed separately. If you’re in Canada, most specialist appointments are covered by your provincial health plan with a valid referral. In the U.S., coverage depends on your insurance plan.

It depends on your location and the type of specialist needed. In Canada, most specialists require a referral for you to be seen or covered by provincial health. In the U.S., some specialists accept self-referrals, but many insurance plans require a referral for coverage.

A medical referral from a general practitioner typically lasts 12 months from the date the specialist first sees the patient. Our virtual doctors can also provide referrals for longer or indefinite periods if ongoing care is needed. However, a new referral is required if the patient develops a new or unrelated condition during that time.

Once you receive your referral letter, contact the specialist’s office to book your appointment. Be ready to provide the referral document, and mention any urgency or preferred dates. The clinic may also request your health card. Let them know if it’s your first time and they’ll guide you through what to expect and how to prepare. Ask if you’ll need to bring anything or complete forms in advance.

You can get a referral without seeing a doctor in-person through telehealth platforms such as Your Doctors Online. Simply register yourself on our app, describe your condition, and ask a doctor for a referral.