A recent extensive survey indicates that more Canadians now have access to a family doctor or nurse practitioner compared to three years ago, although overall satisfaction levels remain low. The survey by OurCare, a national project aimed at defining and enhancing primary care, revealed that an estimated 5.9 million Canadians lack regular access to primary care providers, a decrease from 6.5 million in 2022.
Dr. Tara Kiran, a family physician and lead researcher at St. Michael’s Hospital in Unity Health Toronto, emphasized the significance of this improvement given the population growth during the same period. The survey, conducted in collaboration with the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and involving over 16,000 respondents, highlighted that only 28% expressed satisfaction with the current primary care system, signaling a pressing need for action.
Kiran emphasized that quality primary care extends beyond merely having a doctor. It involves providing timely, culturally sensitive, holistic, and empowering care, equipping patients with the necessary information to navigate the healthcare system effectively. To enhance primary care services, both Kiran and the CMA recommended scaling up team-based care, where family doctors and nurse practitioners collaborate, offering comprehensive care that may involve other healthcare professionals like nurses, social workers, and pharmacists.
Several provinces, including Ontario, Manitoba, and Nova Scotia, have invested in primary care teams, setting clear expectations for public access to enhanced services. Despite these efforts, challenges persist in accessing specialty care and diagnostic services, as revealed by the survey’s findings. Dr. Sarah Cook, president of the College of Family Physicians of Canada, emphasized the importance of establishing ongoing relationships with family doctors to promote open communication, early detection of health issues, and preventive care.
The survey also indicated disparities in access to primary care based on income levels, with higher-income individuals more likely to have a regular clinician compared to lower-income counterparts. Additionally, differences were observed in out-of-pocket expenses for primary care services, with individuals without a primary care provider more likely to incur costs for appointments and consultations.
Overall, the survey underscores the need for continuous improvements in primary care services across Canada to ensure that every individual has access to quality healthcare.