The barrier
Travel. Mobility. Stigma.
The idea
Less distance.
More care.
The approach
Home kits. Drone returns. Partner labs.
The people
Older adults. Sexual health access. Remote communities.
The pilot
One hub. One lab. A small kit range.
The funding
Clinic partnerships. Service fees or subsidized access.
The measures
Returns. Turnaround. Ease. Comfort.
What we need to learn
Safe handoffs. Assisted collection. User comfort. Cold-weather flight limits, sample temperatures and ground backup.
The evidence
CIHI, 2025: 24% of Québec adults with a primary care provider reported same- or next-day care for non-urgent needs in 2024. This measures timely access, not average days waiting.
Health Canada, 2025: workforce shortages contribute to capacity pressure. At-home self-collection could reduce suitable collection visits; it would still need lab and clinical staff.
Montréal fall-prevention guidance: winter ice is a mobility concern. Reducing clinic trips is a design goal, not a proven outcome.