How to Get a Doctor's Note Without a Family Doctor in Ontario
Over 2.5 million Ontarians don't have a family doctor. Here are your options for getting medical documentation.
## How to Get a Doctor's Note Without a Family Doctor in Ontario
Ontario's family doctor shortage affects over **2.5 million residents**. If you need a sick note but don't have a GP, here are your options.
### The Ontario Family Doctor Crisis
- **2.5+ million Ontarians** lack a family doctor
- Wait times for new patient acceptance: 1-3 years in many areas
- Northern Ontario and rural communities hit hardest
- The shortage is projected to worsen through 2030
### Your Options for Getting a Sick Note
#### 1. Walk-In Clinic
- **Pros:** In-person assessment, widely available in urban areas
- **Cons:** 2-4 hour waits (GTA), may charge $20-40 for notes, limited hours
- **Best for:** Complex situations requiring physical examination
#### 2. Online Physician Service (MedLetter)
- **Pros:** Same-day delivery, no wait, $49 flat fee, available 24/7
- **Cons:** Not suitable for emergencies or conditions requiring physical exam
- **Best for:** Standard sick notes, return to work letters, stress leave documentation
#### 3. Telehealth Ontario (811)
- **Pros:** Free, available 24/7
- **Cons:** Nurses cannot issue sick notes, may refer you elsewhere
- **Best for:** Triage and advice, not documentation
#### 4. Ontario Health Teams / Urgent Care
- **Pros:** Extended hours, multidisciplinary care
- **Cons:** Long waits, not all issue sick notes
- **Best for:** Genuine medical concerns beyond documentation
#### 5. Virtual Walk-In Clinics (Maple, Tia Health)
- **Pros:** Video consultation
- **Cons:** Higher cost ($50-100+), inconsistent availability
- **Best for:** When you want a video consultation
### Why MedLetter Is the Best Option
If you need a sick note and don't have a family doctor:
- **No family doctor required** — CPSO-registered physician reviews your request
- **Same-day delivery** — most notes delivered within 6 hours
- **$49 flat fee** — no surprise charges
- **Available 24/7** — submit your request anytime
**[Get your sick note now →](/get-started/sick_note)**