There’s no sugar coating the situation: it can be hard to get a primary care physician in East Toronto and even harder in many parts of Ontario. But it can be done.
Dr. Workentin shares his suggestions on how to find and secure a family doctor. He also offers tips on how to get the primary care you need in the meantime – things like treatment for non-emergency conditions, prescriptions and more.
1. Look local
Use a service like Google Maps to search for family medicine clinics in convenient locations, whether that’s close to home, work or public transit.
Clinics with websites may note if they’re accepting new patients. “Regardless, call or, better yet, visit in person to ask if they’ll take you on,” says Dr. Workentin.
“It’s easier to say ‘no’ on the phone than face-to-face. If they’re not accepting new patients, request to be added to their waitlist.”
2. Tap into your network
If your family members or friends have a family doctor, ask them to ask their doctor directly if they’ll take you as a patient.
3. Try Ontario’s Health Care Connect
For people with an OHIP card, this program pairs you with a “care connector” assigned to help you find a family doctor or nurse practitioner in your area.
Dr. Workentin says the service is worth a try, but strongly emphasizes the value of pursuing all of these tips at the same time to maximize your chances of success.
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