On a chilly, dreary, rainy morning in Kingston, a long line of people gathered outside CDK Medical Centre in hopes of finding a new doctor. The centre had announced in February that they were taking on new patients and had already hosted two sessions to accommodate the demand. Despite the long lines and waits, the centre needed to host a third session to fill the vacant spots. Peter MacDonald, who had been without a doctor for three years, decided to give it a shot. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to find a doctor who would look out for the public and provide much-needed medical care.
CDK Medical Centre has rostered over 600 patients so far through these rostering events and aimed to add another 100 on Saturday. Despite smaller line-ups compared to previous sessions, some individuals still camped out overnight or arrived as early as 5:30 a.m. to secure a spot. Jessica Schryer, a student at the college, mentioned that she was losing access to care after graduation and needed a primary doctor for her necessary medications. She highlighted the struggles she faced in getting her prescriptions refilled at walk-in clinics, causing her anxiety and uncertainty about her healthcare options.
The goal of CDK Medical Centre is to roster about 4,100 patients, and they have currently reached just over half of that target. The centre’s initiative to host rostering events reflects the ongoing issue of patient access to primary care providers in the community. With many individuals struggling to find a doctor willing to take them on as patients, events like these provide a crucial opportunity for those in need of medical care. The dedication of individuals like MacDonald and Schryer to endure long waits and uncertain outcomes demonstrates the urgency and importance of addressing the shortage of primary care providers in the area.
The shortage of primary care providers not only impacts individuals seeking medical attention but also contributes to the burden on emergency services and walk-in clinics. Without a regular doctor, individuals may resort to seeking care in emergency rooms for non-urgent issues, leading to increased wait times and strain on healthcare resources. The need for more primary care providers is evident in the demand for events like CDK Medical Centre’s rostering sessions, which attract large numbers of people in search of consistent and reliable healthcare. The community’s response to these events underscores the significance of ensuring access to primary care for all residents.
In addressing the issue of patient access to primary care, CDK Medical Centre’s efforts to roster new patients are a step towards bridging the gap between healthcare demand and provider availability. By actively seeking to add new patients to their roster, the centre shows a commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of the community. Events like the rostering sessions provide a platform for individuals like MacDonald and Schryer to access the medical care they require, reducing barriers to obtaining necessary medications and regular check-ups. As CDK Medical Centre continues to work towards their patient rostering target, they play a vital role in improving healthcare access and outcomes for residents in Kingston and beyond.
Overall, the story of individuals lining up outside CDK Medical Centre highlights the ongoing challenges faced by many in accessing primary care providers. The dedication of those seeking a doctor, despite adverse weather and long waits, speaks to the urgent need for more healthcare resources in the community. As CDK Medical Centre works towards rostering additional patients, they demonstrate a commitment to addressing these challenges and ensuring that all residents have access to essential medical care. Events like these not only alleviate the strain on emergency services but also provide a lifeline for individuals like MacDonald and Schryer who are in need of consistent healthcare support.
