In spite of the declining number of Family Physicians in Kingston, it is not impossible to find a Family Physician. Here are some tips to assist in the quest to find a Family Physician.
The first step is to get out the yellow pages and start phoning all of the listings. Be prepared to get the response “we are not accepting anyone at this time” or “ I will put your name on the list”. The practice of medicine is often cyclical and there are busier and quieter times of the year. If you do not get anywhere with phoning, do not give up. Some Physicians will accept new patients intermittently. So if you received a negative response this week, try again later. Do not be offended if the receptionist is not too helpful, as she is receiving 10 to 20 calls per day from other potential patients. Another option is to inquire in person. Sometimes it is more difficult for the receptionist or Physician to refuse someone in person. Again persistence and patience will pay off in the long run. It is not uncommon in Kingston to be searching for years.
Call in favours from your friends and family. Have these people ask their Family Physician if they will take you on as well. If your relative or friend has a good report with their Family Physician, he or she will be more likely to say yes to “one more patient”.
Consider providing a resume of your medical health and concerns. If you are upfront regarding your health and requirements, the Physician may feel that there is enough room in the Practice to accommodate your needs.
Do anything it takes to get you noticed and stand out from all of the competition. Why should the Physician take you on rather than one on the twenty other people who inquired that day? An approach that makes you stand out from the crowd will often help. The specifics of such an approach are left to your imagination.