A study has found that Ontarians without a family doctor face a significantly increased risk of death, especially those with multiple chronic conditions.
A recent study published in the Health Affairs Scholar journal has revealed alarming statistics regarding the health risks faced by Ontarians who do not have a family doctor. The research analyzed the health records of over 12 million residents and found that those with multiple chronic conditions are at a higher risk of death if they go without a family doctor for extended periods. Specifically, individuals lacking a family doctor for two or more years had 12-fold higher odds of death and nearly 16-fold higher chances of premature death, emphasizing the critical role regular medical care plays in managing chronic health issues.
Dr. Jonathan Fitzsimon, a family physician and the lead author of the study, highlighted the stark difference in outcomes for patients with chronic conditions who did not have a family doctor compared to those who did. He pointed out that for similar individuals with chronic conditions, the presence of a family doctor significantly reduces the risk of death, even within a short timeframe of one year. This finding underscores the dire consequences of the ongoing shortage of family doctors in Ontario, as many patients are left without essential medical support.
The implications of this study are profound, particularly for health policymakers and the healthcare system in Ontario. As the province grapples with a shortage of family physicians, it is crucial to address the barriers preventing Ontarians from accessing consistent healthcare. Ensuring that more residents have family doctors could ultimately save lives, particularly for vulnerable populations with multiple chronic conditions, who rely heavily on continuous care to manage their health effectively.
