# Determinants associated with receiving a medical appointment through the primary care access points for unattached adults in Quebec: A cross-sectional study

## TL;DR

This study explores factors influencing whether unattached adults in Quebec receive medical appointments through primary care access points.

## Contribution

This is the first study to document the characteristics and needs of patients using primary care access points in Quebec.

## Key findings

- Younger patients and those with acute health problems are more likely to receive medical appointments through the access points.
- Patients seeking medication renewal or administrative help also have a higher likelihood of receiving appointments.
- GAP A users are more likely to receive appointments compared to GAP B users.

## Abstract

Canada is experiencing an unprecedented primary care crisis, with 6.5 million Canadians reporting lacking a family physician, including 31% of the Quebec population. To address this problem, the province of Quebec implemented primary care access points (in French, they are Guichets d’accès à la première ligne, or GAPs) to help unattached patients navigate and access primary care services while awaiting attachment. We aimed to examine the determinants associated with unattached patients receiving a medical appointment compared to another service through the GAP. Cross-sectional data (n = 13,291) from two GAPs were collected (June 2022 to March 2023). Multivariable logistic regression was carried out. Being younger, calling for an acute health problem, medication renewal or to have administrative documentation filled, having a physical or mental health problem, and using GAP A (compared to GAP B) were associated with an increased likelihood of receiving a medical appointment. This study is the first to document the characteristics of patients using the GAP and their needs.