How to find a family doctor who accepts new patients?

Finding a family doctor in Calgary is a bit of a quest. Not because there aren't any doctors, but because many of them already have patients. But it's doable, the main thing is to know where to look and how to sign up. Here's what you need to know for 2025:

First, get your AHCIP

Before looking for a doctor, you need to register with the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). Without this card, most clinics will simply not accept you.

What documents are required:

  • Proof that you live in Alberta (rental agreement, utility bill, bank statement).
  • Document confirming your status: PR Card, work or study permit.
  • Passport or other form of ID.

You can submit your documents online at AHCIP or through a Registry Agent. The card is usually issued within 3-5 days.

Where to find a doctor

Once you have your AHCIP, it's time to find a doctor who is accepting new patients.

Main online resources:

For example:

  • Westside Medical — 17 Ave SW.
  • Medicentres Panorama — Country Hills.
  • Heritage Hill Medicentre — Macleod Trail.

⚠ Some clinics may ask you to come in for a short meeting (“meet-and-greet”) before officially becoming a patient.

You can call directly

  • Health Link Alberta — dial 811 for advice and help finding a clinic.
  • Many clinics also accept applications by phone or through their websites.

Additional tips

  • Consider the suburbs — it is easier to find an available doctor in towns near Calgary.
  • Ask for recommendations in Ukrainian Facebook groups — they often share up-to-date information.
  • If you cannot find a family doctor, you can temporarily use walk-in clinics or contact nurse practitioners.

For refugees and those on low incomes

  • Discounts on medical services are available through Fair Entry.
  • Ukrainian refugees can obtain a temporary medical number through AHS Ukraine Support.
  • Without AHCIP, assistance is provided by, for example, The Alex Community Health Centre.

If you cannot find a doctor

  • Check walk-in clinics through the Medimap website (https://medimap.ca).
  • You can also try online services:
  • Telus Health MyCare
  • Maple (some of these are partially covered by AHCIP insurance).
  • In case of emergency, contact Urgent Care or call 911.

Conclusion

Finding a family doctor in Calgary is possible, but you have to look hard. Use online searches, recommendations from friends, hotline numbers, and if necessary, don't be afraid to look outside the city. It's best to start looking as soon as you register for AHCIP so that you don't end up without a doctor when you suddenly need one.