A new poll reveals that over a third of Canadians are turning to the internet for medical advice due to a lack of access to a doctor. This trend highlights the growing challenges posed by an ongoing physician shortage in Canada, raising concerns about the quality and reliability of health information Canadians are receiving.
A recent poll reveals a stark reality in Canada : over a third of Canadians resort to seeking health information online due to a lack of access to a doctor. This alarming statistic, captured in a survey conducted last November by the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and Abacus Data, underscores the growing challenges posed by an ongoing physician shortage .
The survey, which questioned 3,727 adult Canadians, found that 37 percent of respondents relied on medical advice found online because they couldn't consult a doctor or medical professional. This trend raises serious concerns about the quality and reliability of health information Canadians are receiving. The survey also revealed that 23 percent of respondents who followed online medical advice experienced negative health outcomes or adverse reactions. The CMA emphasizes that this reliance on online sources highlights the pervasive lack of accessible healthcare across the country. An estimated 6.5 million Canadians – one in five – lack a regular family doctor or nurse practitioner. Dr. Joss Reimer, president of the CMA, calls the survey results “extremely concerning,” stating, “There is no other generation that’s been exposed to so much misinformation, but also had to face the hardship of a health-care system that is overtaxed and not meeting their needs.”Statistics from Employment and Social Development Canada paint a grim picture of the doctor shortage. Canada currently has fewer doctors per capita than most Organization for Economic Co-Operation and Development countries. Projections indicate a staggering shortage of almost 20,000 doctors by 2031, with 48,900 job openings for general practitioners and family physicians expected against only 29,400 potential applicants. The CMA attributes this shortage to several factors, including the retirement of many experienced family doctors and a decline in new graduates choosing family medicine. The association also notes that more family doctors are specializing in niche services rather than providing general care. Reimer expresses deep concern about the situation, stating, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen it quite as bad as it is right now when it comes to both access to care, but also burnout that we’re seeing amongst our physician colleagues.” Despite the discouraging outlook, Reimer believes in the possibility of creating a better healthcare system for Canadians and those who work within it. The CMA recommends seeking information from reputable online sources like the Public Health Agency of Canada if a doctor is unavailable. Reimer emphasizes the importance of open communication with healthcare providers and encourages Canadians to consult their doctors with any health concerns. Ultimately, the CMA advocates for a more integrated healthcare system that ensures accessibility and quality care for all Canadians
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