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Access to primary healthcare remains a pressing issue for many Canadians, as a new report reveals significant disparities across provinces and territories. The findings, based on the Our Care survey led by Dr. Tara Kiran, a family physician in Toronto, in collaboration with the Canadian Medical Association, indicate that approximately 5.8 million adults lack a regular family doctor or nurse practitioner. The report underscores a fragmented healthcare system, with access varying markedly by region.
Unequal Distribution of Primary Care
The survey, which gathered data from over 16,800 Canadians, shows that provinces such as New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and the Northwest Territories face the greatest challenges in providing primary care. In New Brunswick, for instance, only 65.9 per cent of respondents reported having a primary care clinician, suggesting that around 240,000 residents may be left without adequate healthcare support.
Dr. Lise Babin, a family physician based in New Brunswick, expressed concern over the province’s lagging performance. “It’s no surprise that we’re falling behind other provinces in accessing family physicians,” she stated, highlighting a long-standing issue exacerbated by insufficient investment in primary care.
In stark contrast, provinces like Alberta, Ontario, and Manitoba boast higher rates of access, with 87.4 per cent, 88.5 per cent, and 88.8 per cent of respondents, respectively, reporting a regular clinician. These numbers suggest that proactive measures in team-based care and competitive remuneration have drawn healthcare professionals to these regions.
The Health Consequences of Inaccessibility
The ramifications of lacking a family doctor can be severe, particularly for individuals with chronic health conditions. A recent study conducted in Ontario corroborates Dr. Babin’s concerns, revealing that those without a family doctor for two years or more are at a staggering 12-fold increased risk of death, with nearly a 16-fold higher likelihood of premature death.
The Our Care report also examined the availability of timely care for urgent concerns, revealing that only 37 per cent of Canadians felt they could receive care the same or the following day. Ontario was above the national average at 44.6 per cent, while Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, and the Northwest Territories fell short.
Dr. Kiran pointed out that the systemic issues preventing timely access to care are not due to a lack of effort from healthcare providers but rather stem from poorly designed systems. She advocates for increased investment in inter-professional teams to enhance the capacity of family doctors and nurse practitioners to meet patient needs effectively.
After-Hours Care and Patient Satisfaction
The survey also explored after-hours care, with only 31 per cent of Canadians reporting that their primary care clinic could assist with urgent issues outside regular hours. Provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, and those in Atlantic Canada significantly underperformed against the national average, highlighting a critical gap in care availability.
Dr. Eddy Lang, an emergency room physician in Calgary, noted that emergency departments often become the last resort for patients who feel their health needs are urgent. “When patients come to see us, they genuinely believe they have a problem that requires immediate attention,” he explained.
Despite the challenges, the report found that among those with access to primary care, approximately 67 per cent felt their clinician supported their overall well-being. However, overall satisfaction remains disappointingly low, with only 27.8 per cent of respondents expressing contentment with the primary care system. Dr. Babin remains cautiously optimistic, recognising the need for continued investment in healthcare infrastructure and reform.
The Broader Implications of Care Access
Dr. Kiran emphasises that satisfaction in primary care extends beyond simply having a clinician. Canadians are seeking timely access, respectful treatment, and the empowerment to manage their health effectively. “People want more than just a family doctor; they want to feel valued and informed about their healthcare journey,” she stated.
Why it Matters
The findings from this report illustrate a critical juncture for Canadian healthcare, revealing the urgent need for systemic reform to ensure equitable access to primary care for all citizens. As millions remain without adequate healthcare support, addressing these disparities is not just a matter of policy but a fundamental issue of public health. Ensuring that every Canadian has timely access to a family doctor is essential for improving health outcomes and fostering a more resilient healthcare system. The onus is now on policymakers to take decisive action to bridge these gaps and invest in a cohesive national healthcare framework that meets the needs of all Canadians.
