Finding a trusted doctor can be difficult to do these days. There is a definite shortage of doctors in Quebec, but with the following tips and tricks from Hazelview, you will be one step closer to finding a reliable and knowledgeable doctor in your area. Hazelview Properties has apartments in 27 cities throughout Canada, including our Greater Montreal properties.
Finding a doctor
The following methods are your best bet when looking for a family doctor:
Your family
Often times doctors whose practice is already full will still agree to take on their current patients’ family members. This is a great place to look for a new doctor as you can get the trusted opinion of your family, and it is a much easier than having to ‘cold call’ random clinics where you have no connection.
New doctors
Both young and new-to-the-area doctors typically do not have an established patient clientele. It’s a great idea to keep your eye out for new medical clinics or those that have added new doctors to their staff. You might have to do a bit of research in order to find these doctors and clinics, but chances are they will have space available.
Network clinics and hospitals
There are many network clinics and hospitals that offer services without appointment. Walk in clinics, although not a permanent solution for a lack of family practitioner, are a great resource to use for minor emergencies and unexpected bouts of sickness. Call ahead of time to ensure that a doctor will be able to see you. Also, if possible, always try to return to the same clinic when you need to. The medical team at the facility will have access to your file, and will better be able to offer you accurate care. Make sure to ask the doctor and healthcare team at the clinic if they know of anyone looking for new patients. For more serious healthcare emergencies make sure to visit your local hospital. Saint Lambert Hospital is located less than a 10-minute walk away from our 222 Woodstock apartments in Saint-Lambert.
Finding a specialist
If you are looking for a referral to a specialist and do not have a family doctor don’t panic. There is a referral centre available for citizens of Quebec here. A nurse clinician will contact clients for a brief assessment, evaluate priority levels based on medical needs, and then refer to either a family practitioner or to a particular specialist. The registration form can be accessed online here.
It’s alarming that one out of four people in Quebec currently do not have a family doctor. The above tips will help to get you and your family one step closer to having a reliable and knowledgeable family doctor or specialist. For more information on Hazelview’s Communities, including our Montreal apartments, please click here.