Sound off: How hard is it to find a family doctor?

April 29, 2014 - InfoTel News:

The Thompson Region Division of Family Practice wants to know how hard it is to find a doctor in our region and is asking people to fill out a short survey to help gather your thoughts.

The survey is part of the G.P. for Me program, a provincial initiative to help match the thousands of British Columbians searching for a family doctor with those accepting new patients. The program was deemed successful in Prince George, Cowichan Valley and White Rock-South Surrey where it matched up about 9,400 patients with doctors during a test period.

Tips for an Effective Doctor-Patient Relationship

• See your family doctor first for all your health care needs, except in the case of emergencies. If they can’t provide the care you need in their own practice, they can refer you to the right health care professional.

• If you must go to another health care provider, including the hospital or emergency room, tell them who your regular family doctor is. Request that your doctor be sent any instructions or results. Then your doctor will have your complete and accurate medical history.

• Be prepared: make a list of things you want to discuss at your appointment. Be clear about your requirements when booking.

• Be patient: even the most organized doctor will have to deal with unexpected emergencies throughout the day, and you may have to wait for your appointment.

• Communicate openly with your doctor, and expect the same of them.

• Know your medical history; be prepared to tell your doctor about any drugs or supplements you take, steps you’ve taken to deal with your condition(s) etc.

• Make sure you understand the doctor’s instructions before you leave the appointment.

• Follow through on all tests, referrals, medications etc. that your doctor prescribes.

Search form

Sound off: How hard is it to find a family doctor?