5 Things You Need to Know About IRCC Panel Physicians

Canadian immigration is not straightforward. Navigating it can be complex, involving different departments, such as legal professionals, government agencies, and medical professionals. Therefore, government-approved panel physicians provide an essential service during the process by giving applicants a medical exam for Canadian immigration.

With Immigration Medical Toronto’s 30 years of experience, we have provided countless examinations of immigrants in Toronto and the GTA. We help people by simplifying the process to ensure they have everything required when applying for their Immigration Medical Exam (IME). Our panel physicians are IRCC-approved and certified to conduct examinations.

What is the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)?

IRCC facilitates new immigrants and offers programs. It oversees all immigration issues pertaining to Canada. Initially known as CIC (Citizenship and Immigration Canada), it was rebranded to IRCC in 2015. With its renaming, Canada began to focus on all aspects of immigration motives.

Aspects of IRCC

The three aspects of the IRCC are as follows:

• Immigration: This area refers to Canada’s welcoming nature toward new immigrants and outlines the mutual benefits for individuals and our country. People coming to Canada directly benefit from jobs, allowing the country to grow economically.
• Citizenship: The road to becoming a Canadian citizen involves Canada’s support for people who temporarily reside in Canada and want to become permanent citizens. It allows them to apply for citizenship. 
• Refugees: Canada is warmly open to refugees and humanitarian immigrants. With an increasing global decline in accepting refugees, Canada incorporated an initiative to provide support and a good quality of life.

Canada provides equal opportunities for those of diverse religions and cultures. We strive to be a discrimination-free and peaceful nation, allowing those who enter to live comfortably.

What are IRCC-authorized panel physicians?

Panel physicians are certified doctors who provide medical examinations to people who apply for immigration to Canada. IMEs are necessary for those looking to obtain their permanent residency, as well as for temporary workers, students, and visitors. Furthermore, only a government-approved physician can perform the IME. Your regular doctor cannot conduct it.

Panel physicians offer a multitude of medical exams and tests required by the Canadian immigration process. Exams include testing for communicable diseases (tuberculosis) and additional tests to ensure individuals are healthy and can adjust to Canadian life.

Things to Know About IRCC Panel Physicians

1. Where can the list of panel physicians be found?

Individuals can locate government-approved physicians by visiting the IRCC website. Their page contains a search tool allowing you to locate panel physicians by city, postal code, or country. Information on authorized individuals globally is kept current.

Additionally, you can book it with Immigration Medical Toronto.

2. Involvement with the IRCC

The IRCC relies on certified panel physicians to complete an IME when required as part of immigration. When a person applies for immigration, they must receive an IME. The process begins with the IRCC notifying you of this requirement and providing a panel physician list close to your residence.

The next step involves scheduling an appointment within a specific timeframe with a physician to have your IME.

3. The process of an IME

Upon arrival, you must provide a valid ID and complete a brief medical history questionnaire. Bring all your current medications and medical reports regarding your medical history from any previous healthcare providers. 

Panel physicians will then conduct the following medical exams and tests:

• Non-Invasive Physical Exam: Data on height, weight, vision, hearing, and medical history are gathered. Panel physicians assess your limb movement, abdomen, skin condition, and the sound of the lungs and heart. A physician will not examine the rectal or genital area.
• Chest X-Rays: A chest X-ray is necessary for those over 11 years old. We provide on-site X-ray services to expedite the process and for your convenience.
• Mental Status Exam: This test is essential for people 75 and over or with certain medical conditions. It requires no preparation and is not an IQ test.
• Syphilis and HIV Testing: This is essential for people over 15 years of age.
• Creatinine Testing: This exam is necessary for people over 15 or with a pre-existing kidney condition.

4. How are my results reported?

Once our panel physicians complete your tests, your report outlining your results will be sent to the IRCC. We directly submit your results to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada within 3–10 days. Our staff will also provide you with your eMedical information sheet confirming the completion of your exam immediately, which can be used for your application.

Once received,  IRCC uses the information for your overall immigration assessment. Depending on their evaluation, they may require you to obtain further medical examinations.

5. Does my panel physician decide my application?

Panel physicians do not make any decisions regarding your application. Their sole responsibility is to perform your IME and report to the IRCC. The IRCC determines your application results based on your IME results and additional information provided on your immigration application.

Why choose Immigration Medical Toronto?

Choosing the best provider for your IME is essential. We have 30 years of experience, and our panel physicians have an extensive comprehension of government requirements.

Our team will assist you in confidently and efficiently navigating your journey to citizenship. Our clinic is IRCC-approved, and we will maintain the highest standards throughout your exam.

We are fluent in Cantonese, English, Korean, Mandarin, and Persian, ensuring no language barrier to receiving proper care. Our experts strive to make each client feel comfortable throughout the process.

Our facility also provides convenient care. It offers complete service for all IME needs. We conduct all essential tests in one place, including X-rays and bloodwork. By completing everything in one location, results are processed quickly and more efficiently. We remove the delays within the process so you can obtain citizenship faster.

How to Book Your Medical for Canada Immigration

To schedule your medical for Canada immigration appointment, please contact Immigration Medical Toronto at 416-463-2438 or by using our online booking portal.