Half of Canadians Face Family Doctor Shortage or Access Struggles: Angus Reid Survey
A stark new survey from the Angus Reid Institute has revealed a deepening crisis in Canadian primary healthcare, with half of the nation's residents reporting they either do not have a family doctor or struggle significantly to access one. This finding underscores a widespread and growing challenge within the healthcare system, affecting millions of Canadians from coast to coast.
A Nationwide Challenge in Primary Care Access
The survey, conducted in early 2026, paints a concerning picture of accessibility. For many Canadians, securing consistent and reliable primary medical care has become an arduous task. The lack of a regular family physician forces individuals to rely on walk-in clinics, emergency departments, or to forgo medical attention altogether, potentially leading to worsened health outcomes over time.
This access barrier is not isolated to remote or rural communities, though those areas often face more acute shortages. The data suggests that urban centers are also grappling with this issue, as patient rosters fill and fewer new doctors are available to take on patients. The strain on the system creates longer wait times for appointments and reduces the continuity of care, which is crucial for managing chronic conditions and preventive health.
Implications for Public Health and System Strain
The consequences of this shortage are multifaceted. Without a family doctor, patients may delay seeking help for symptoms, leading to later-stage diagnoses of serious illnesses. This can result in more complex and costly treatments down the line, further burdening the healthcare system. Additionally, the reliance on emergency rooms for non-urgent care contributes to overcrowding and diverts resources from true emergencies.
The survey results arrive amid ongoing discussions about healthcare funding, medical school enrollment, and retention strategies for healthcare professionals. They highlight an urgent need for policy interventions aimed at bolstering the primary care workforce and innovating service delivery models to meet the population's needs.
Looking Forward: Potential Solutions and Systemic Pressures
Addressing this crisis requires a multi-pronged approach. Potential solutions being discussed include:
- Increasing the number of training spots for family medicine residents in Canadian medical schools.
- Enhancing incentives for doctors to practice in underserved areas and to take on more patients.
- Expanding the role of nurse practitioners and other allied health professionals in providing primary care.
- Investing in telehealth and digital health tools to improve access, especially in remote regions.
The Angus Reid survey serves as a critical barometer of public experience with the healthcare system. Its findings are a clear call to action for provincial and federal policymakers to prioritize strengthening the foundation of primary care, ensuring all Canadians have access to the essential medical support of a family doctor.
