Introduction
When your family doctor retires or closes their practice, it can feel unsettling. Continuity of care is important for managing prescriptions, specialist referrals, and follow-ups. In Ontario, patients are not left without options — there are clear pathways to transfer to a new family doctor and keep your medical history intact.
This 2025 guide explains step by step how to transfer, what forms you may need, and how long it typically takes in Ontario cities like Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, Milton, Brampton, and Hamilton.
Why doctors retire or close their practices
- Retirement: Many family doctors in Ontario are reaching retirement age.
- Practice closure: Clinics may shut down due to staffing shortages or relocation.
- Roster limits: Some doctors reduce the number of patients they see, forcing transfers.
Step 1. Confirm when your current doctor is leaving
Your doctor should give notice and may provide a formal letter or email. Ask about:
- Last day they will see patients
- Whether they are recommending another doctor
- How to obtain your medical records
Step 2. Get a copy of your medical records
You have the right to access your full medical chart in Ontario.
- Submit a written request to the clinic
- There may be a small administrative fee (usually $30–$50)
- Records can be provided digitally or on paper
- Make sure test results, prescriptions, and immunizations are included
Step 3. Register for a new family doctor
Options in 2025 include:
- Health Care Connect: Ontario’s official program that assigns you a doctor accepting new patients.
- Community Health Centres (CHCs): Often available in Hamilton, Mississauga, and other urban areas.
- Hospital-affiliated clinics: Many in Oakville, Milton, and Brampton have intake programs.
- doktr.ca: Our platform connects you directly with family doctors currently accepting patients in your area.
Step 4. Ensure prescriptions and referrals continue
- Ask your old clinic for a temporary supply of medication before transfer
- If you are waiting for a specialist referral, request that it be forwarded to your new doctor
- Keep copies of any diagnostic imaging or bloodwork
Step 5. First visit with your new family doctor
At your initial appointment:
- Bring your OHIP card and medical records
- Review your health history and prescriptions
- Discuss ongoing care plans (chronic conditions, screenings, referrals)
How long does a transfer take in Ontario?
- Health Care Connect: 3–6 months depending on your city
- Hospital-affiliated clinics: 1–3 months, faster if urgent
- doktr.ca: Same week in many cases, with confirmed openings across Burlington, Mississauga, Oakville, Milton, Hamilton, and Brampton
Tips for a smooth transfer
- Act quickly when you hear your doctor is retiring
- Use multiple pathways (Health Care Connect + doktr.ca)
- Be open to nearby cities if your town’s wait times are long
- Keep personal copies of your test results and prescriptions
Conclusion
Losing a family doctor in Ontario can feel overwhelming, but you are not without solutions. By requesting your medical records early, applying through Health Care Connect, and using digital tools like doktr.ca, you can make the transfer as smooth as possible. Whether you live in Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, Milton, Brampton, or Hamilton, these steps help ensure your care continues without interruption.
👉 Ready to connect with a doctor accepting patients now? Start your registration at doktr.ca/register.