The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) has relaxed its policy, now allowing doctors to treat family members and close contacts for non-emergency conditions, including ordering tests and treating illnesses, if no other healthcare option is available. This change, updated in May, aims to address the province's primary care crisis, particularly in smaller and Indigenous communities, though ongoing treatment and intimate examinations are still prohibited.
Some Ontario doctors can treat family members as regulatory college relaxes rules amid shortage
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) has relaxed its policy, now allowing doctors to treat family members and close contacts for non-emergency conditions, including ordering tests and treating illnesses, if no other healthcare option is available. This change, updated in May, aims to address the province's primary care crisis, particularly in smaller and Indigenous communities, though ongoing treatment and intimate examinations are still prohibited.
Trending- 1 CPSO policy updated (May 2025)
- 2 Changes published in digital publication (June 2025)
- 3 Article published (July 11, 2025)
- Increased access to care for patients in underserved areas
- Doctors can provide broader medical care to family members
- Ongoing treatment and intimate examinations still prohibited for family members
What: The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) has relaxed its policy, allowing doctors to provide broader medical care to family members and close contacts, beyond emergencies or minor conditions, if other healthcare options are unavailable.
When: Policy updated in May 2025; changes published in June issue of CPSO's digital publication; article published July 11, 2025.
Where: Ontario, Canada; specifically mentions smaller communities and Indigenous communities.
Why: To address 'current access to care challenges in Ontario' and the province's primary care crisis, recognizing limited healthcare options in some areas.
How: The CPSO updated its policy on its website and in its digital publication.