Most Ontarians Wait More Than Three Months for Specialists: Poll
A recent poll conducted by a health research company has confirmed what many Ontarians have long suspected: the province is facing some of the longest wait times in the world for specialist appointments and diagnostic tests. These prolonged waits not only create anxiety and stress for patients but can, in some cases, jeopardize their health and well-being.
The poll surveyed 1,500 respondents and revealed that 70 per cent waited more than three months to see a specialist or receive a diagnostic test. Additionally, 33 per cent reported waiting over six months, while another 37 per cent reported waiting between three and six months.
This issue is particularly acute for women, with 87 per cent expressing dissatisfaction with the current healthcare system, compared to 79 per cent of men. Women also reported longer wait times, often exceeding six months.
This situation starkly contrasts with Ontario Health’s recommendations, which state that the average wait time for a diagnostic scan for a non-emergency condition should be between 2 and 28 days, depending on the urgency of the case.
Data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information shows this is a national issue, as diagnostic imaging wait times across the country remain longer than before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The poll results triggered reactions from both medical professionals and patients. The Ontario Medical Association (OMA) has recommended establishing a centralized intake and referral system to reduce unnecessary administrative burdens for doctors and expedite the process. This system would be managed by Ontario Health and implemented in collaboration with the OMA, Ontario Health Teams, hospitals, community-based surgical and diagnostic clinics, and primary care practices.
The proposal has received strong public support, with 95 per cent of those polled in favour of this modernized approach.
Interestingly, this is not a new proposal; the Ontario Medical Association had advocated for such a system in 2023, but the suggestion was not acted upon. Will OMA be luckier this time around? That remains to be seen.
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