That's terrible!

One suggestion that might not be as convenient, but may yield better results is to do a manual search and call to see if they take new patients:  https://www.cpso.on.ca/public-register/all-doctors-search

Because you are looking for someone who at least has some experience with IBD, you may wan to check with your GI to see who they recommend. Of course, a GI should be one who handles all of your Crohn's related stuff, but it is frustrating to have a family doc who doesn't know much about IBD.

Thanks Eric...I will give that site a look. I just cannot believe the shortage of doctors, and it certainly isn't new. I guess my GI would be my best source right now. I'm in complete agreement with you about docs not having any, or very limited knowledge of IBD.

Posted by: Songbringer

I just cannot believe the shortage of doctors, and it certainly isn't new. 

I guess it depends on the area. A few years ago (literally only a few years ago), my family doctor retired and I was able to find a new doctor for me and both kids - my wife found another family doctor who was better able to provide for her needs, but it didn't take much effort. 

I'm not sure if we just called around or what, but it wasn't difficult. I hate that you're having to go through this. 

Thanks :) I guess I will keep shopping around and hope I can find one to meet my needs sooner than later.

Hello Songbringer...I have a suggestion, that worked for me.  If you have a few really good friends or family members that are very happy with the GP they have, enlist their help. Ask them about there doctor, age, how long they had them ect. If this is someone you would like to see, write a short but informative letter, and tell the doctor your situation as best as you can without overwhelming him with too much knowledge, too soon. Tell him your situation and that you realize the importance of the visit when you have needs pertaining to your disease.  If you feel led, tell him you are afraid to be without a doctor, even if you are not. Then assure him that you hold the 10 min. visit in high regards and will respect that time so you do not hold up his office hours or overwhelm him with too much  at one time. Tell him your friend spoke highly of him and what a privilege it would be to be his patient. Also tell him what your  present situation is with IBD,  tell him you have the ileostomy, and that you fear being without a doctor when you need one most.  If you are  on medications list the most important ones that you need repeats for on a regular basis.  Tell him how exhausted you are from the search and ask if he would please consider taking you on as a patient. If so, could he please have his receptionist call you,  with an appointment soon as you need... , if not, could he please refer you to one of his choice. I did this once and it worked well for me. Just this past spring, I had my neighbor, who also needed a regular family doctor, write up her letter, I took it to my doctor, told him what the intent was and asked if he could take the time to read the short note. He did, and within the week, she had an appointment with my doctor and is very happy with him. When I got into a doctor this way, I made a thing of the time when the doctor came in the room, then I ended my appointment at 8 min., I thanked him again for his time and asked when he wanted to see me again, then I was on my way. There did come a time where I needed a twenty min. appointment,  but I asked him about this at the time of  another apt. then later booked it with the receptionist. This allows him to bill correctly for his time showing greater respect for him also. I truly hope you can find someone that will work with you.  I am still very happy with my doctor and because I always say thank you to the receptionist on the way out, they know I am not the one holding him up. Best of luck if you choose to give this a try!