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WHAT'S NEW
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Rx for the doctor shortage
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Five million Canadians are "orphan patients" -- unable to find a family physician to take care of them. If you've been stranded by our country's acute doctor shortage, here's how to ensure you get the best care you can -- under the circumstances.
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By Patricia Robertson
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What's the best way to find a family doctor?
First, "get your friends and family to advocate on your behalf," says Schumacher. If your social network fails to dig up a name or two, he suggests you check the College of Physicians and Surgeons registry in your province. "There are usually one or two doctors in each city with open practices."
Another route you can take is to ask your human resources department at work for a referral.
Every province produces a Blue Book directory. You can find it at your local library. It will list community health clinics, public health nurses, nurse practitioners and group practices -- all a good potential link between you and a family doctor. Some of them can even provide interim primary health care (more about that later).
You can also ask to be added to a doctor's waiting list. If her practice is partially closed, you will be called when she has openings for new patients. You can also contact your closest hospital for a referral. If you have seen a specialist recently, he may know of a colleague accepting new patients.
No doctor? What to do next
First, health experts concur: In the absence of a family doctor, don't be tempted to diagnose or treat yourself, even with the myriad of websites that appear to offer "answers." Matt Gowan, a naturopath in Toronto, warns: "I don't do my own bookkeeping or fix my own car. I'd rather seek out an expert." And yes, there are experts available.
1) Walk-in clinics
Let's say you have a throat infection. You know that you need a throat swab and possibly a prescription for antibiotics, but first you require a diagnosis. A walk-in clinic is a good place to seek treatment for a minor infection.
First, you have to locate a clinic. Try the yellow pages or check with a nearby hospital; some will recommend a neighbouring walk-in practice. You can also ask your pharmacist, or canvass your network of friends and colleagues.
Then phone around and ask what kind of services the clinics in your district offer. Do they only treat acute patients, or do they also offer scheduled appointments for a physical and regular screening tests? "Most women, including those who are low-risk, need to have a Pap smear and blood pressure test every 24 months," advises Schumacher.
The Canadian Health Services Research Foundation says the best clinics "have key features in common: evening walk-in and scheduled care; fewer than 10 physicians; and established links with other health-care organizations. Their physicians see approximately four patients per hour."
"You are going to have to do more legwork than if you had a family physician," says Dr. Michael Dillon, medical director at Klinic Community Health Centre in Winnipeg. "Be prepared. Arrive early at your first clinic appointment knowing: What do you need? What are your concerns? What is your family history? Are you having symptoms you want sorted out?"
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