After you get your health card, you’re all set to choose a family doctor. Your family doctor is your gateway to health services in Manitoba, both for primary care and for special care.

(Please note that procedures, wait times, even health care options may have changed during the pandemic. Call the agency or doctor’s office directly to confirm information before going in-person to be safe).

How to get a doctor

You can research and look for primary health care providers on your own or register with the Family Doctor Finder.

On your own
While using the Family Doctor Finder is easy, it can also take time. This is because getting a doctor depends on factors like the availability of health care providers in your area, your location and preferences. To explore on your own, start by asking your neighbours and friends for recommendations or use the 211 Manitoba directory. Click on the “Health” icon, write down your zip code and click on the box before “Primary Care/Family Doctors”. It will give you a list of health centres near you. Contact the clinics and ask if they have doctors who are accepting new patients. Let them know your preferences (for example, you’d like a female doctor, or you need translation services, etc.). The clinic will recommend one if there is a doctor available that meets your needs. If not, they may be able to provide options. They will also ask you if you would like to set an appointment for the initial meeting.

Family Doctor Finder
You can register with the Family Doctor Finder by phone or online. You will be asked to provide personal information and your preferences. However, you will need to register by phone if:

• You are under the age of 16, a group/family of more than 12 people, or your registration request is more complex;
• You previously registered with the program and your application may still be active; or
• If you do not have a Manitoba Personal Health Information Number (PHIN).

Staff will work on getting you connected with a home clinic in your area that fits your needs. This will take more or less 30 days after registering (30 days is not guaranteed. This will depend on factors like demand).

Quickcare/Walk-in clinics
If you or any of your family members need non-emergency medical help and you don’t have a family doctor yet (or if your family doctor is busy), you may go to Quickcare or Walk-in clinics in Steinbach and Selkirk. If you’re in Winnipeg, you can choose between Walk-in Connected Care clinics or Walk-in clinics. These clinics are staffed by nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and registered nurses who can diagnose and treat minor health issues.

If you have a health question, call Health Links-Info Sante. They can provide information and help you find the appropriate care that you need.

Another option are ACCESS Centres which may be found in Winnipeg and Brandon. They offer a wide range of health and social services. Check the MB Primary Care services page for various health care options.

Doctor’s services

Your Manitoba Health Care coverage pays for insured services provided by doctors in their office, clinic, hospital, or in your home. These range from routine check-ups to emergency care, and care while you are in a hospital. Your family doctor can also refer you to a specialist for any condition or injury that needs extensive treatment or order medically necessary surgery anesthesia, X-rays and other laboratory services when needed.

Your physician is your best ally in keeping your family and yourself healthy. Make sure to provide complete medical records so that they can have a solid understanding of your health. This will help them provide the best medical care for you and your family.

To maximize your time during a doctor’s appointment, you should prepare. Read Preparing for a doctor’s appointment.

Building a good relationship with your family doctor is a good policy. While we regard our doctors as experts, it is important that you also know your rights as a patient in order to make the most of this relationship. Remember that ultimately, you have the right to make decisions about your health care. It helps to be informed.
 
Article updated April 20, 2022.