What to look for in a family doctor

A family doctor is the person who knows your health over time. They follow your blood pressure year after year, notice when something changes, order your screening tests and connect you to specialists. Choosing well matters, because you will likely see this doctor for many years.

Here is what to weigh.

Practical fit: can you actually get there?

The best doctor is one you can reach when you need them.

• Location and parking. A clinic close to home or work makes it easier to keep appointments.
• Hours. Look for some early, evening or weekend availability if you work during the day.
• Same-day access. Ask how quickly you can be seen for something new, like an infection.
• Virtual visits. Phone or video visits save a trip for follow-ups, results and renewals.

Language and comfort

You should be able to explain your symptoms in the language you think in. Ask which languages the doctors and staff speak.

Some patients also prefer a doctor of a particular gender, especially for women's health. It is reasonable to ask whether that is possible.

Clinical fit: does the practice cover what you need?

• Are they accepting patients of your age, including children and seniors?
• Do they manage chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and asthma?
• Do they offer preventive care, such as cancer screening and vaccines?
• How do they handle test results and specialist referrals?

After-hours coverage

In Ontario, many family doctors work in groups such as Family Health Organizations (FHOs). These groups provide after-hours clinics for their registered patients. Ask what happens when the office is closed, so you know where to go before you need it.

The team around the doctor

A doctor who works with a team can do more for you. Having a pharmacy, physiotherapy or other services in the same building means fewer trips and better-coordinated care.

Questions to ask at your first visit

• How do I book an appointment, and how far ahead?
• Can I get a same-day visit if I'm sick?
• Do you offer phone or video visits?
• How will I hear about my test results?
• How do I renew a prescription?
• Where do I go after hours or on weekends?

How Kennedy Medical Centre answers these questions

• Accepting new patients of all ages, including families and seniors.
• Central Brampton location at 2 Kennedy Road South, with patient parking.
• Walk-in hours on weekdays, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, and Saturday mornings.
• Virtual visits are available. Book by phone at 905-459-4385; online booking is coming soon.
• Languages: English, Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi.
• After-hours care for registered patients through our physician group, the Wise Elephant Family Health Organization.
• On-site pharmacy and full rehab services, including physiotherapy, chiropractic care and massage therapy.

If that sounds like a good fit, apply as a new patient. Our staff will call you within 48 hours.