Group Medical Visits
Join a Supportive Community to Treat Your Medical Conditions in a Confidential Group-Based Setting.
Holistic Healing for Mind and Body
Combining Medical Science, Yoga, and Meditation for Your Well-being
What is a Group Medical Visit?
Group Medical Visits (GMVs) provide a unique opportunity to treat health conditions in a confidential group-based setting. Lead by Dr. Carmen Chornell, each 90-minute weekly session allows patients with similar diagnoses to receive treatment recommendations, share experiences, and support each other’s journey to feeling better.
GMVs are an excellent way to provide patient information, manage medical diagnoses, and normalize the stigma that often comes with physical and mental health conditions.
Program Details:
Duration: 90 minutes per session
Frequency: Once a week for 8 weeks (yoga group is 9 weeks)
Format: Confidential Zoom group
Cost: Free for British Columbia residents (funded by MSP)
Eligibility: Must reside in British Columbia and have a relevant medical diagnosis (e.g., anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, diabetes, chronic pain, chronic fatigue, high cholesterol)
Requirement: Must attend all 8 weeks; these are not drop-in groups
Referral Needed: A referral from your GP or a specialist is required to join the group.
Attendance and No-Show Policy:
Policy Details:
Attendance is essential for each session to maintain the groups continuity and effectiveness.
- If you know you will miss a session please inform Dr. Chornell during your initial consultation.
- If you need to miss a session due to extenuating circumstances, notify Dr. Chornell at least 24 hours in advance to avoid the no-show fee.
No-Show Fee: A $40 charge applies for any missed session without 24-hour notice.
Referral Process
Step-by-Step Process:
Obtain a Referral: A referral from a general practitioner or specialist is required. The Mood Disorder Association of BC handles the referral process for the Yoga Therapy and Food as Medicine groups.
Visit the Following Links:
Food as Medicine Program: [click here]
Yoga Therapy Program: [click here]
Exercise as Medicine - by invitation only
Reconnect (Meditation + Minfdulness) - by invitation only
Currently the Exercise and Meditation groups are closed to new referrals. Participation is only available by invitation by Dr Chornell to patients that she has met in her clinic or through one of her other groups. If the referral process changes, this website will be updated.