Primary care is the first point of contact for patients in the healthcare system, typically provided by family doctors, general practitioners, nurse practitioners, and family health teams. Primary care providers offer a broad range of services including routine checkups, diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses, chronic disease management, preventive care, vaccinations, and referrals to specialists when needed. Having a regular primary care provider who knows your health history leads to better health outcomes. Canada faces primary care access challenges, with millions of Canadians lacking a family doctor. Provinces are exploring solutions like team-based care and expanded nurse practitioner roles.