Most people in Denmark and the Netherlands have a doctor. Here’s what Canada can learn [Video]

Emily Ritchie wasn’t nervous about finding a doctor in Denmark.

She knew that within days of moving from Vancouver to her family’s new home in Copenhagen last year, they would be connected to a general practitioner. 

Denmark residents are given a card with a number they use for everything from opening a bank account to accessing health care. The card also includes the name of an assigned general practitioner (GP), the equivalent of a family doctor in Denmark. 

“You’re not left looking for a number. You’re not left searching for who to contact. It’s gold in a card,” Ritchie told Dr. Brian Goldman, host of CBC’s White Coat, Black Art. 

It’s a stark difference from the situation in Canada, where finding a family doctor or nurse practitioner can be challenging. Some people can wait years depending on where they live.

As many as 6.5 million Canadians may be without a family doctor or nurse practitioner.