Do you know why it's so hard to find a family doctor in Ontario, Canada?

Question

I think it's because the way the Ontario gov pays a family doctor compared to specialists. I am told that there is actually no shortage of family doctors in actual numbers. However many of them don't want to work as family doctors because it pays too little. They work instead in emergency rooms, hospitals, and cosmetic clinics. I was told a family doctor gets a miserly $30 from the gov for a visit regardless of what the visit is for. Out of that $30, they are supposed to pay for the office expenses, secretary, etc. This is a shame!

Answer 1

I agree. and the Ontario government keeps saying they are fixing the problem by "training" more family doctors and bringing more family doctors from other (mostly 3rd world) countries.  These new doctors too, will leave the profession as soon as they are trained!!

my hairdresser gets paid more for a visit than my doctor!!!  no wonder they don't want to do that job.  

Answer 2

They are overworked and underpaid. There should be more financial compensation paid to GP's.  I see smaller communities working hard to get GP's into their areas more than the government.It's also easier for a Dr to work in larger cities.  I know for a fact that my GP has 2 jobs. If you are trying to find a GP trying going to The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario,and doing a family Dr search