A recent extensive survey indicates that more Canadians now have access to a family doctor or nurse practitioner compared to three years ago, although satisfaction levels remain low. The survey, conducted by OurCare, a national project aimed at enhancing primary care services, revealed that an estimated 5.9 million Canadians lack regular access to a primary care provider, a decrease from 6.5 million in 2022.
Dr. Tara Kiran, a leading family physician and researcher at St. Michael’s Hospital, collaborated with the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) on this survey, which gathered responses from over 16,000 Canadians. Only 28 percent of respondents expressed satisfaction with the current state of primary care, highlighting the need for significant improvements.
Kiran emphasized that quality primary care goes beyond just having a doctor; it involves timely, culturally sensitive, wellness-focused, and empowering care. Both Kiran and the CMA emphasized the importance of expanding team-based care, where family doctors and nurse practitioners collaborate to provide comprehensive care. This approach, which may involve other healthcare professionals like nurses or social workers, offers a holistic view of patients’ health.
Several provinces, including Ontario, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia, have made investments in primary care teams, setting clearer expectations for the services available to the public. Despite these efforts, challenges persist in accessing specialty care and diagnostic services, according to Kiran.
Dr. Sarah Cook, president of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, stressed the significance of developing ongoing relationships with family doctors to facilitate better communication and proactive healthcare. Addressing issues such as physician burnout, excessive paperwork, and training enhancements in family medicine could contribute to a more sustainable healthcare system, Cook added.
The survey also identified disparities in primary care access based on income levels, with higher-income individuals more likely to have a regular clinician. Additionally, differences were noted in out-of-pocket expenses for primary care services, with respondents without a primary care provider more frequently paying for appointments or consultations.
In conclusion, the survey findings underscore the need for continued efforts to enhance primary care services across Canada to ensure all individuals have access to comprehensive and timely healthcare.
