Now that brings up yet another question. The act of being able to choose your doctor and psychiatric service.

In my region, you have no choice at all. When your family doctor makes a referral he/she tries to match you up with a psychiatrist who might be best for you, but you may end up waiting 12-18mos for an assessment. Thus, the chances are more likely that it is 'first come first served.' The ONLY way to obtain a psychiatrist is through your family doctor.