Screening guide › No family doctor?
No family doctor? You can still access screening.
Ontario has several routes that do not require a family doctor, and services that help you find one. These are navigation routes — a screening test itself does not treat symptoms.
Breast screening — self-referral
People ages 40–74 who meet Ontario Breast Screening Program criteria can book directly: 1-800-668-9304. No doctor's referral is needed. Ages 40–49 are encouraged to make an informed decision first; a Health811 navigator (811) can help you think it through.
Colorectal screening — FIT kit through Health811
As of July 1, 2026, average-risk people ages 45–74 without a family doctor or nurse practitioner can call Health811 at 811 to access a free FIT kit. If you have a family history or other risk factors, say so — a colonoscopy pathway may apply instead, and that needs a clinician referral (Health811 cannot book a colonoscopy).
Cervical screening — find a clinic
Cervical screening needs a sample collected by a healthcare provider. Health811 can help you locate an appropriate clinician or clinic (it does not perform the test). Walk-in clinics, community health centres and sexual health clinics may offer it.
Lung screening — contact a program location
If you are 55–80 with OHIP and have smoked commercial tobacco daily for at least 20 years in total, you can contact an Ontario Lung Screening Program location to ask about an assessment. A clinician referral is required before screening participation; the program can advise on access. Contacting a site does not guarantee a scan or a new family doctor.
AAA screening — a requisition is needed
Ontario encourages people 65 and older to have a one-time abdominal ultrasound; a clinician requisition is generally required. If you do not have a primary care provider, Health811 (811) or Health Care Connect (1-888-579-6707) can help you navigate access — they do not issue the requisition themselves.
Finding a family doctor or nurse practitioner
Health Care Connect (1-888-579-6707) registers you for a provider accepting patients in your area. Community health centres and nurse-practitioner-led clinics are other options.
Symptoms are different. If you have new or concerning symptoms, do not wait for a screening route. Severe or life-threatening symptoms: call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Otherwise a walk-in or urgent care clinic, or Health811 for advice on where to go.