Hip and Knee Musculoskeletal Care Services
Patients and Clients
To support equitable access to a high quality continuum for musculoskeletal care, Ontario Health in partnership with Central Region Hospitals operates the Rapid Access Clinic (RAC) for patients with moderate to severe Osteoarthritis.
Find a Rapid Access Clinic Near You
The Rapid Access Clinic provides patients with an assessment by an Advanced Practice Provider within 4 weeks of when the completed referral is received by the Central Intake Program. An Advanced Practice Provider is a Regulated Healthcare Professional such as a Physiotherapist, Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner or Chiropractor with additional training in orthopedic care.
The Advanced Practice Provider conducts a standardized assessment and based on results, patients will be referred for surgical consult or provided with non-surgical recommendations. Along the care continuum, Primary Care Providers will receive updates on their patient’s journey.
Wait time
<4 weeks
Wait time
4-12 weeks
Wait time
12+ weeks
Frequently Asked Questions: Rapid Access Clinic
What is the RAC?
The RAC helps patients with musculoskeletal (mus-cu-lo-skel-e-tal) conditions get access to care quickly. They focus on hip and knee arthritis. However, some RAC’s see patients with shoulder, and ankle/foot conditions.
How can I be referred to the RAC?
Once you have visited your primary care physician/provider and all information on the referral form, and any required imaging is completed, your physician can send a referral to the Central Intake Hub – Orthopedics (Central Region) to be reviewed for our program. If accepted, your referral will be sent to an assessment center. If the referral was declined for any reason, your physician will be notified.
Where would my assessment/appointment be completed?
There are many assessment centers across Central Ontario. Your referral will be sent to the closest assessment center to your home address or preferred location. Please let your GP know your preference regarding location if you have one.
How long is the wait time to be assessed?
Once we have received the referral, Central Intake will process it. If all the required information is obtained, you can expect a phone call to schedule your appointment from the Rapid Access Clinic (RAC) within 2-4 weeks.
How will I be notified of the appointment?
You will be contacted by the Rapid Access Clinic directly to schedule the appointment.
What is the role of the APP?
The APP (Advanced Practice Provider) will perform an assessment on the primary problem area and provide education and recommendations including surgical consultation and/or non-surgical treatment options specific to your needs.
Who performs the assessments?
Your assessment will be performed by an Advanced Practice Provider (APP) who is a regulated health professional (ie. Physiotherapist, Occupational Therapist, Chiropractor, etc..) with additional training in orthopedic ca
What can I expect at my appointment?
At your appointment you will be asked a number of questions regarding your condition and the reason that brought you in. The APP will also review your medial history with you. Once this has been completed, they will perform a physical examination. The APP will then review everything with you and assist in creating a personalized plan to help manage your condition and improve your physical function. This plan may include some exercises and modified activities.
If I am referred to a surgeon, what is the process?
If you are deemed appropriate for a surgeon consultation, the APP will discuss with you your options of next available, preferred hospital or surgeon.
Is there anything I should do to prepare for this appointment?
Please bring with you a valid health card, updated list of medications, wear comfortable clothing, and if you have any recent x-rays done and have access to the link to view images that may be helpful.
Patient Fact Sheets
