While attachment to a primary care provider is relatively high across Canada (82 percent), it seldom translates into timely or after-hours access. In the ten provinces and the Yukon, reported access was low, with only 9 to 26 percent finding after-hours care easily accessible, and 19 to 32 percent able to get same- or next-day appointments. To improve patient care, provinces need to focus not only on connecting individuals to providers but also on implementing operational reforms that enhance appointment availability and flexibility. See this C.D. Howe Institute paper for more on solutions.
