How to find a family doctor in Toronto
To get medical care on time, you need your own family doctor in Canada. But finding one can be a real quest.
Canada does not have enough doctors compared to other developed countries. According to a World Bank study, in 2010 there were 2.1 doctors per 1,000 people. By comparison:
- in Ireland — 3.2 per 1,000 people;
- in Israel — 3.7;
- in Germany — 3.7;
- in New Zealand — 2.7;
- in Australia — 3.9.
There are many reasons for this phenomenon in Canada, but one of the main reasons is financial. The Canadian government is trying to control health care costs so that they do not eat up too much of provincial budgets. In Ontario, for example, faced with a recession and rising health care costs, Prime Minister Bob Rae proposed a solution in 1992: limit the number of doctors by reducing the number of high school graduates. The policy continued under the Conservative government of Mike Harris and was only partially changed by later Ontario governments.
But what should ordinary Canadians do in this situation? What steps can be taken?
Visiting the clinic
No, it's not the same as having a family doctor. But it is how you can get operative medical care in case of emergencies. Even if you don't have a regular family doctor, you will get the attention and support you need. In addition, many clinics also have family practices. You may be able to find a family doctor there in the future, but it will take time.
Health Care Connect
This program is a service that can help you find the right doctor for you and your whole family. However, this process includes a rigorous vetting process that you must be sure to pass. You will need to prove that you have actively sought out a family practitioner. You must also have a valid OHIP card. If you do not have a valid OHIP card, you must contact the Service INFO to get information on how to obtain one.
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