Ontario Aims for Universal Primary Care Access by 2029

Ontario’s health minister, Sylvia Jones, announced that the province is making significant strides towards ensuring that all Ontarians have access to a primary care provider by 2029. This initiative follows the government’s efforts to address a backlog of patients waiting for primary care services. In the first year of the plan, approximately 275,000 individuals have been connected to a primary care provider.

A substantial portion of this progress is attributed to the reduction of the Health Care Connect waitlist, which has traditionally been underutilized. According to an assessment by the Ontario Auditor General, only 11 percent of individuals in need of a primary care provider are currently registered on this list. Furthermore, fewer than 10 percent of family doctors are enrolling patients from the waitlist, highlighting a significant gap in the efficiency of the system.

Dr. Jane Philpott, former federal health minister, was appointed by the Ontario government approximately one year ago to spearhead a primary care action team. She emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that it is crucial for ensuring that individuals can find a family doctor or nurse practitioner in a timely manner.

In addition to addressing the waitlist issues, the Ontario government is investing in new primary care teams across the province. This investment includes funding of $235 million to support these teams, as well as increasing the number of seats available at medical schools. To further alleviate the shortage of family doctors, the government is also expediting the licensing process for physicians moving to Ontario from other provinces.

While the commitment to improving primary care access is clear, there are challenges ahead. Patients seeking family doctors have expressed frustration about the centralized waitlist system, with many losing faith in its effectiveness. The government recognizes the need for ongoing improvements and is dedicated to optimizing the Health Care Connect program to better serve those in need.

In summary, Ontario is on a path to connect all residents with primary care providers by 2029, building on progress made in the past year. With continued investments and strategic initiatives, the government aims to enhance the healthcare experience for all Ontarians.