Expanding virtual care in rural Newfoundland and Labrador, an ethical analysis

Abstract

This research considers whether an expansion of virtual primary care would be ethically justified in light of the current level of primary health care accessibility in rural Newfoundland and Labrador. Currently virtual primary care is not available at the same level as specialist care in the province. However, the provincial government has an obligation to improve the financial well-being of the province. The current provincial economic environment and the potential negative implications of expansion introduce ethical tension. This thesis considers whether there is an ethical obligation to expand virtual care in rural Newfoundland and Labrador. I will argue that the provincial government has an ethical obligation to expand virtual care in rural Newfoundland and Labrador, referring to the increased accessibility of primary health care for residents. I have two arguments supporting this position: one that draws upon the positive right to health care, and another that invokes the bioethical principle of justice. I will provide support for my argument by describing financial benefits for the province, as well as benefits for residents and for the provincial health care system. I will demonstrate that potential negative implications of expansion do not outweigh the obligation to expand virtual care.