As per our discussion, having a dedicated primary care provider (PCP) is crucial for maintaining your overall health and well-being. Finding a PCP can take time, so it’s essential to be patient and persistent during your search. I have outlined some steps that you can take:
STEP 1: Register with the Health Connect Registry (EASY TO DO)
When you register, you are added to a centralized registry of primary care providers across your community. This process has recently been updated in April 2024
Step 2: Use Online Resources:
Find a Doctor BC allows you to search family physicians within your area who are accepting new patients:
BC College of Family Physicians (BCCFP) outlines some key steps that you can take
Pathways is an online directory where patients can find details about healthcare providers and clinics
Step 3: Contact Local Medical Clinics:
Reach out to local medical clinics in your community. Some clinics may have openings for new patients or maintain waiting lists. Contact them to inquire about their availability and registration process. Alternatively, if you are currently using walk-in clinics, you can ask if any doctors at the clinic would be able to take your on as a patient.
Step 4: Ask for Referrals:
Ask friends, family members, or colleagues if they have a family doctor and if they can refer you to their physician. Many doctors prioritize new patients who come through referrals.
Step 5: Seeking Interim Medical Advice
2-1-1 is a free and confidential service that you can call that connects people to helpful and vital resources in their community.
The HealthLink BC Directory provides listings for health services provided by the provincial government, health authorities, and non-profit agencies across BC. You can search for walk-in clinics, hospitals, mental health and home care programs, pharmacy and laboratory services, and more.
8-1-1 is a free-of-charge provincial health information and advice phone line available in BC. You can call 8-1-1 to speak to a health service navigator who can help you or connect you directly to a registered nurse, registered dietitian, pharmacist and more.
I hope that the above steps are successful in helping you find a family physician and accessing medical services. Please note that the above is simply a guide that I created and it may not apply to all patients or scenarios.
The information contained in this guide is updated as of June 2024.
Dr. Brian Hwanki Kim 