A strange side-effect of the COVID-19 pandemic has been greater access to health care thanks to changes in the way doctors are attending to the needs of patients.

A prescription refill, which previously required a doctor’s visit, can now be done over the phone.

Registered psychologist Dr. Janine Hubbard says the same is true in the mental health field.

She says many psychologists have been able to expand their services to patients in a broader geographic area, something that was not previously feasible.

Hubbard says the fact that people don’t have to take time off work, drive over the road in the snow, and find parking has improved access for many patients.

She doesn’t see that changing any time soon, even after the vaccine becomes readily available.