The closure of the only walk-in clinic in St. Thomas has left approximately 10,000 residents without a primary care provider, forcing many to seek care at the emergency room, which has led to long wait times and high patient volumes. The remaining clinic that accepts non-registered patients has very limited hours, making it difficult for many to access care. The city is trying various strategies to attract more doctors, including offering financial incentives and establishing a physician recruitment committee. A new health hub has opened to provide primary care services by appointment, aiming to bridge the gap for those without a family doctor. The situation highlights the broader issue of physician shortages in Ontario, with many communities struggling to find and retain family doctors.
