So Long, Farewell, and Thanks for All the Prescriptions: How to Break Up With Your Doctor (Ontario Edition)
Let's face it, sometimes relationships fizzle out. Even the doctor-patient kind. Maybe they have terrible elevator music, their waiting room smells faintly of regret, or they just never seem to have appointments when you're on fire (metaphorically...we hope). Whatever the reason, if you're ready to say "adios" to your current doc, here's the down-low on derostering in Ontario.
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| How Do I Deroster From A Doctor In Ontario |
The De-rostering Dance: A Two-Step
There are actually two ways to cut the cord with your medical professional. Buckle up, buttercup, it's not brain surgery (hopefully your doctor never needed to perform that on you).
- The Amicable Breakup: Calling ServiceOntario
This is the smoothest move. Grab your phone and dial the dulcet tones of 1-888-218-9929 (TTY: 1-800-387-5559). That's ServiceOntario, your friendly neighborhood government folks who manage all things healthcare-y. Tell them you want to de-roster from your doctor and they'll take care of the rest. Bonus points if you throw in a bad joke about your doctor's puns. The customer service rep might chuckle (internally, but a chuckle nonetheless).
QuickTip: Focus on one line if it feels important.
Within a 10-day timeframe (approximately the lifespan of a particularly stubborn cough drop), you'll receive a confirmation letter letting you know you're officially unhitched from your doc.
- The Doc Dodger: Going Rogue (Not Recommended)
We wouldn't recommend this method, but hey, it's a free country (or province, in this case). Basically, you just...stop going. No calls, no shows, nada. This might work, but it's not exactly polite. Why it's a bad idea: Your doctor might still try to contact you for important health stuff, and you won't be on their patient list for future appointments (like that annual check-up you always forget about).
Finding Your Next Medical Matchmaker
Tip: Reread key phrases to strengthen memory.
Now that you're a free agent, it's time to find a new doc! Here are a couple of options:
- Hit the Interwebs: The Ontario government website (https://www.ontario.ca/page/find-family-doctor-or-nurse-practitioner) has a dandy tool to help you search for a new family doctor or nurse practitioner in your area.
- Ask Around: Chat with friends, family, or neighbours. Maybe someone has a medical marvel they rave about.
How To FAQs on De-rostering
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How long does it take to de-roster?
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
About 10 days, roughly the same amount of time it takes for a library book fine to become truly terrifying.
Do I need my doctor's permission to de-roster?
Nope! It's your medical freedom, boo-yah!
What if I can't find a new doctor right away?
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.
No worries! You can still use walk-in clinics for urgent needs.
Will I lose my medical history when I de-roster?
Nope! Your medical records stay with your doctor, but you can request a copy for your new doc.
Is there a fee to de-roster?
Nope! This breakup is completely free (although tissues for that emotional goodbye song might cost extra).
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