Register for a Family Doctor
Description
Finding a family doctor in BC is a long game. The province uses a centralized waitlist called the 'Health Connect Registry'. By registering now, you put yourself in line to be matched with a primary care provider in your community.
In person
N/A
Online
5 min
What to do
1.
Go to healthlinkbc.ca and find the 'Health Connect Registry'
2.
Enter your Personal Health Number (PHN) from your BC Services Card
3.
Complete the registration for yourself (and any family members)
4.
Answer the health history questions — these help the system prioritize you if you have chronic conditions
5.
Confirm your email and phone number to receive updates on your status
Warnings
The wait is long
- In Metro Vancouver, the wait for a family doctor can be 12–24 months
- Registering doesn't mean you have a doctor today — it just puts you in the system
- Keep your contact info updated; if they call and you don't answer, you lose your spot
Tips
Use UPCCs while you wait
For urgent but non-emergency issues, look for 'Urgent and Primary Care Centres' (UPCC). They are the best alternative to a family doctor for immediate needs.
Telehealth is faster
Apps like Telus Health MyCare or Rocket Doctor allow you to see a BC doctor via video call. It's often free with your MSP and much faster than visiting a clinic.