Did you know that 400,000 people in British Columbia are still waiting for a family doctor? If you’re also one of them, know that you’re not alone. This article is for people in British Columbia who do not currently have a family doctor, are on a waitlist, or have limited access to primary care. We don’t just help you “find a doctor” – our goal is also to help you access care consistently, even in a strained system.
Why finding a family doctor in BC feels so hard right now
There are several system-level reasons for this. The first is probably that demand is outpacing clinic capacity. BC communities are growing, the population is aging, and healthcare needs are becoming more complex. Research shows that BC residents report among the weakest access to primary care in Canada.
The government acknowledges staffing shortages and has made important policy changes to connect approximately 250,000 patients with a family doctor or nurse practitioner in 2024.
Still, getting a doctor in BC is a lengthy process. You register your need and wait for a successful match. You’ll stay on the waitlist until a family physician becomes available in your area.
How to get a family doctor or nurse practitioner in BC
While it may seem difficult, the first step is to start registering with the province. Health Connect Registry is a government service that allows patients and their families to connect with a primary care provider. Whether you’re finding a family doctor in Vancouver, Prince George, or Penticton, start your search with HealthLink BC.
How to find a family doctor in BC who is accepting new patients
Once you’ve registered online, try some of the following ways to find doctors and clinics accepting new patients in BC.
Start calling Healthlink BC at 8-1-1
Dialing 8-1-1 is a practical way to get answers. HealthLink BC staff can help you:
- Confirm your registration and status
- Tell you about local clinics or primary care networks
- Direct you to nearby services for your urgent needs
Their services are available 24/7 and in multiple languages. If you’re deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired, call 7-1-1.
Search the Pathways Directory in your community
The Pathways Medical Care Directory helps patients find nurse practitioners, doctors, and clinics by location. You can search your community to find out if any doctors are accepting new patients.
Find a doctor BC
Another community-based resource, Find a Doctor BC, is often used for spotting new or recently opened clinics alongside the government sites. You can find urgent and primary care centres in BC outside your neighbourhood.
Check the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC)
While the CPSBC does not maintain a live “accepting new patients” list, the registrant directory provides information on doctors’ credentials and scope of practice. Call them for current or future openings.
Contact your Local Division of Family Practice
Every region in B.C. has a Division of Family Practice that supports local doctors and primary care planning. While they cannot guarantee placement, your local division may:
- Inform you which clinics are planning to open patient intake
- Provide guidance on regional attachment programs
- Direct you to registered nurse practitioner clinics
If these options don’t help right away, you can also:
- Ask your friends or family for referrals. Sometimes, family doctors accept referrals from existing patients.
- Ask your clinics or specialists if they know about any available family doctors accepting new patients in BC.
Finding a family doctor in Vancouver and the nearby areas
Whether you’re searching for a family doctor in Kelowna, Victoria, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, or the Tri-Cities, you can use the same options listed above. There is more competition for BC family doctors accepting new patients in Vancouver. Clinics open patient intake only for a short duration (days, not months). There is a stronger need to combine: registry, calling, and directories. Keep a note in your phone with your PHN, address, and preferred pharmacy. This can help you be ready and get faster paperwork for intake.
How long does it really take to get a family doctor in BC?
There is no clear timeline for how long it takes to get a family doctor. Average wait time can range from weeks to months across the province. It depends on different factors, such as:
- Where you live and your community’s supply of family doctors/NPs
- Clinic capacity and staffing changes
- Population growth
- Your existing health conditions
Here’s what you can do to reduce delays on your end:
- Register early
- Keep your registry info updated
- Run the “clinic call loop” monthly
What to do while you wait for a family doctor?
Waiting doesn’t mean you’re stuck without care. Some medical conditions cannot safely wait that long. You can visit walk-in clinics, primary and urgent care centres, and pharmacies.
Pharmacists in BC can renew prescriptions, treat minor ailments, and provide various forms of contraception. You can also call 8-1-1 to speak with various health professionals for medical advice.
The provincial government in BC makes it even easier to access health across the province through telehealth. Now, British Columbians can receive virtual care from home and expect quick health outcomes.
How online doctors support BC residents without a family doctor
If you live in British Columbia, the challenge isn’t just finding a family doctor. It’s maintaining continuity of care while unattached. You can still talk to an online doctor in BC for services available. Virtual doctors can help bridge the gap by providing:
- Treatment of common, non-emergency medical issues
- Online prescriptions, when clinically appropriate
- Routine follow-ups and health advice
- Refills for chronic condition management
- Guidance on when in-person care is needed
At Your Doctors Online, licensed healthcare professionals are available 24/7 to see you. We are here, no matter how long it takes you to register with a family doctor in your city.
The information in this blog is meant for educational purposes only. Virtual care is most effective when your symptoms don’t require a physical exam. It is not a replacement for a long-term family doctor. Online doctors can’t help with emergencies like chest pain or shortness of breath. Please call 911 or go to the emergency department if you’re experiencing such symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a doctor in BC right now?
Register on the Health Connect Registry, use Pathways, and call 8-1-1 to learn about local options and services while you wait.
Is there an official way to get a family doctor in BC?
Yes. The Health Connect Registry is the official provincial registry for attachment to a family doctor or nurse practitioner.
What if I need care while I’m on the waitlist?
BC recommends using community services like walk-in clinics, UPCCs, pharmacies, and 8-1-1 support while waiting.
