Finding a doctor in Canada can feel like winning the lottery, especially for seniors. The latest Fraser Institute report, which tracks healthcare wait times annually, reveals a record-high 30-week wait—more than double the 1993 average. However, access to care varies by province, with some faring significantly better than others.
For seniors seeking faster treatment, location matters more than ever. While the national picture is grim, these five provinces stand out with shorter wait times and better access to specialists, from family doctors to orthopedic surgeons.
Ontario
Ontario leads Canada with the shortest wait times at 23.6 weeks. Seniors benefit from a high concentration of specialists and teaching hospitals, improving access to care. The province has introduced geriatric assessment units in major centers and virtual care options to reduce hospital visits. Additionally, many smaller communities have dedicated senior clinics that prioritize treatment for those over 65.
Quebec
Quebec ranks second with a 28.9-week wait time, supported by a unique healthcare structure that benefits seniors. The province’s CLSC network offers front-line services without requiring doctor referrals. Heavy investment in home care brings medical professionals directly to seniors’ homes. Additionally, special pathways in major hospitals help seniors access urgent geriatric care more quickly.
British Columbia
British Columbia ranks third with a 29.5-week wait time, a slight increase from previous years. The province’s Primary Care Networks connect seniors with healthcare teams rather than just individual doctors. UPCCs (Urgent and Primary Care Centers) provide same-day appointments for common non-emergency issues. The mild climate also helps attract healthcare professionals, improving staffing in coastal retirement communities.
Manitoba
Manitoba ranks fourth with a 37.9-week wait time but provides key benefits for seniors. The province’s rural physician retention program helps keep doctors in smaller communities where many seniors prefer to live. Specialized geriatric assessment teams travel to underserved areas several times a month, ensuring seniors receive necessary care. Additionally, Manitoba’s centralized referral system prioritizes cases based on medical urgency rather than just waitlist order, improving access for those in need.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan ranks fifth with a 37.2-week average wait time. The province has pioneered innovative healthcare solutions for rural seniors, including the Connected Care program, which ensures continuity of care despite provider changes. Senior health buses deliver medical services directly to retirement communities and senior centers. Additionally, Saskatchewan offers preferential specialist access for patients over 75 needing urgent consultations for chronic conditions.
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