Who is the non-insured population and how to best care for them?
with Dr. Vinchala Bala
This talk addresses the challenges faced by uninsured individuals, including refugees and those who lose coverage. Dr. Bala explains healthcare coverage options in Ontario, such as OHIP and IFH, while expressing concerns about potential changes. The financial burden of accessing emergency care for uninsured individuals is emphasized, along with the importance of interpretation services and patient confidentiality. The talk highlights the need for improved documentation and communication between emergency departments and community providers. Real scenarios involving uninsured patients are shared to underscore the importance of providing equal care regardless of insurance status.
​
​
About Dr. Vinchala Bala
Dr. Bala is a patient advocate, a Family Physician at Access Alliance, a community health clinic that provides multidisciplinary care to new immigrants and refugees. Dr. Bala also provides short term primary care to the newly arrived immigrants and refugees at the Costi reception centre while they await housing in various parts of Ontario. She is also part of Inner City Health Associates, and currently working at the Four Points COVID recovery site.