In this episode of The Doc Talk Podcast, we break down how the Canadian health care system is actually structured and how to navigate it safely when access is limited,  from the perspectives of an emergency room doc and family doctor.

With more Canadians living without a family doctor and emergency departments under increasing strain, this episode offers practical, honest guidance on where to go for care, what different parts of the system are designed to do, and how to advocate for yourself and your loved ones.

What we cover:

• How Canada’s publicly funded, provincially run health care system works
• The central role of family doctors and what happens when that hub is missing
• How referrals and specialist care function — and where delays happen
• What to expect if you don’t have a family doctor
• The real role of walk-in clinics, virtual care, and community health centres
• What emergency departments are designed (and not designed) to do
• A clear explanation of ER triage and why waiting works the way it does
• What tests and referrals the ER can reasonably provide
• When hospital admission happens and how discharge planning works

Key takeaway:

You should not need insider knowledge to stay safe in the health care system — but until access improves, information can reduce harm.

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Disclaimer:
This podcast is for general information only and does not replace medical advice from your own health care provider.

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