Being rostered, or enrolled, means a family doctor, a nurse practitioner, or their clinic is responsible for your ongoing primary care. You may also hear it called being "attached." It does not stop you from going to a walk-in clinic or the emergency room when you need to.
What it means for you
When you are rostered, your clinic is ideally the first place you contact with a health concern. It is also where the preventive side of your health is looked after, such as making sure you are up to date on screening and vaccinations.
Most of all, it is where you build a long-term relationship with a clinician who knows you. That relationship is a big part of what makes primary care so valuable.
Which clinics roster patients
Enrollment means you belong to the clinic, but not every clinic does it. A typical walk-in clinic does not enroll patients.
A Family Health Organization (FHO) is a group of doctors who roster patients. Some work independently, and some do not. A Family Health Team (FHT) is usually a professionally managed clinic with funding for extra team members, such as dietitians, social workers, physiotherapists, and pharmacists. They are there to support each other, and to support you. Learn more about the types of clinics.
Common misunderstandings
"If I'm rostered, I can only see that provider." Not true. You can still use a walk-in clinic if you have to, and you can still go to the emergency room.
"I'm stuck once I'm rostered." Not true either. You can switch at any time. Be upfront with your new clinic that you were part of another one. You will likely need to sign some paperwork so the change can be registered with the Ministry of Health.
If you don't have a clinic yet
Our Find a Family Doctor page links to the directories and waitlists that can connect you to one.