How to Find a Family Doctor
Having a family doctor can be one of the most important steps you take for your long-term health, but in Manitoba, finding one hasn’t always been easy. Our province has fewer family physicians per capita than anywhere else in Canada.
The good news? Things are changing. More than 100 new family doctors are starting practice here each year, and major recruitment efforts are underway to connect more Manitobans with primary care. That means now is a great time to explore your options and find a trusted health partner for you and your family.
Here are three proven ways to get started:
1. Use the Family Doctor Finder
The free Manitoba Health Family Doctor Finder is designed to match you with a family doctor and home clinic. A home clinic is a home base for care and coordination of your health and medical needs over time. You can register online at any time or by phone at 204−786−7111 (in Winnipeg) or toll-free at 1−866−690−8260, between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. The program aims to connect you with a provider within 30 days.
Helpful hint: The more details you give when registering, such as your location, health needs, and preferred clinic hours, the better your match will be.
2. Ask if a family member’s doctor can take you
If a family member already has a doctor, it’s worth asking their doctor if they can add you as a patient. Sometimes, physicians who aren’t accepting new patients may make exceptions for family members. Many family doctors prefer to treat the whole family, offering care that is connected and consistent over time. This helps them better understand your health history and needs.
Helpful hint: If possible, have your family member give the clinic a heads-up that you’ll be asking. It may make the “yes” more likely.
3. Call clinics near your home or workplace
Family medicine and primary care clinics regularly update their patient lists, especially when new doctors join the team. Calling around is worth the effort — and finding a clinic close to home or work makes it easier to book appointments, follow up on care, and keep your health a priority.
Helpful hint: Ask clinics if they keep a waitlist. Even if they’re not accepting patients today, your name could be next on the list when space opens up.
Why having a family doctor is so important
A family physician isn’t just there when you’re feeling sick. They’re your partner in long-term health, helping you manage ongoing conditions, prevent illness, coordinate with specialists, and support your well-being through every stage of life. They get to know you, your family, and your health needs, making them one of the most trusted experts in your corner.
If you’ve tried to find a doctor before without success, don’t give up. With more doctors recruited and added to the health care system, your next opportunity to connect with one could be closer than you think.
Get the most out of your first visit
Once you’ve found a doctor, being prepared helps you make the most of your time together. Our Getting Healthy Guide offers personalized tips based on your age and gender, including:
- A checklist of recommended screenings and immunizations
- Health risks and topics to discuss with your doctor
- How often you (or your child) should have a check-up
Try the Getting Healthy Guide here!
