In an effort to manage the high costs associated with medical care, and to ensure efficient and appropriate access to diagnostic and specialist services, Canada's health care system depends upon a sophisticated triage mechanism. At present, Canada's family physicians serve as the main entry point to the health care system. Patients cannot access specialists without a referral from a primary care provider. Nor can they access laboratory or imaging diagnostic services without a referral from a primary care provider. Family physicians, therefore, play a key role in managing access to Canada's health care system.
