Starting Practice in Ontario: Checklist for New Family Physicians

About this resource

This checklist walks you through every required step to legally and practically begin family medicine practice in Ontario, whether you are a new graduate, a physician relocating from another province, or an international medical graduate.

Use this when…

• You are completing residency and preparing to enter independent practice
• You are relocating to Ontario from another province or country
• You need a clear sequence of steps for registration, billing and setup

Checklist sections

Step 1: Licensing and Registration

• Apply to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)
• Confirm certificate class (Independent Practice vs. Restricted)
• Register with the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) for member benefits
• Apply for OCFP membership

Step 2: OHIP Billing

• Register with ServiceOntario as an OHIP billing provider
• Obtain your billing number
• Choose a billing model (FHO, FHT, capitation, FFS)
• Set up billing software

Step 3: Professional Insurance

• Register with the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA)
• Confirm CMPA fee coverage for your practice type

Step 4: Practice Setup

• Choose a practice location and model
• Select an EMR
• Complete infection prevention and control (IPAC) requirements
• Set up secure messaging