The Role of Panel Physicians in Immigration Medical Exams

If you’re planning to make Canada your new home, one of the first things you’ll likely hear about is the Immigration Medical Exam. It might sound intimidating at first—but it’s actually a routine and essential part of the process.

Whether you’re applying as a worker, seeking asylum, or being welcomed as a refugee, the medical exam plays a big role in helping immigration officials understand your overall health status. More importantly, it’s designed to protect the well-being of both you and the wider Canadian population.

But did you know you can’t just go to any doctor for this exam? It has to be performed by someone specific—an IRCC-approved panel physician. In this blog, we’ll break down what panel physicians do, why they matter, and how choosing the right one can make your Immigration Medical Exam Ottawa experience a lot smoother.

Who Are Panel Physicians?

A panel physician is a doctor approved and designated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to perform Immigration Medical Exams. They’re the only healthcare professionals authorized to carry out these specific evaluations—not your family doctor, walk-in clinic, or local GP.

Panel physicians are trained to assess your medical history, screen for certain communicable diseases, and determine whether any health conditions could pose a risk to public health or create excessive demand on Canada’s healthcare system.

If you’re in the Ottawa area, make sure the clinic you choose is listed as an approved Immigration Medical Exam Ottawa provider. At The Ottawa Immigration Clinic, for instance, we are staffed by experienced IRCC-designated panel physicians and offer a comfortable, efficient exam process for applicants from all walks of life.

What to Expect from a Panel Physician During Your Exam

So, what actually happens during the immigration medical exam?

Here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:

• Medical History Review: You’ll be asked about your personal and family medical history, any chronic conditions, previous surgeries, and current medications.

• Physical Examination: Examination of heart, lungs, abdomen etc, and visual or auditory assessments.

• Laboratory Tests: A blood test will be required to check GFR, HIV and Syphilis.

• Chest X-Ray: Adults will typically undergo a chest x-ray to screen for tuberculosis (TB), which is a major health concern in immigration screening.

• Vaccination Status: Depending on your age and immigration category, certain vaccines may be required or recommended.

The exam usually takes around an hour, and the panel physician will submit your medical results directly to IRCC via their secure system.

How to Choose the Right Panel Physician

Choosing the right panel physician is more important than you might think. An experienced, IRCC-approved doctor can make the difference between a smooth process and unnecessary delays.

Here are a few tips to help you pick the right provider:

• Make Sure They’re IRCC-Approved: Only doctors on the IRCC’s panel physician list are permitted to conduct these exams. Don’t risk booking with an unqualified provider.

• Check Their Location: If you’re in the National Capital Region, it makes sense to book with a Immigration Medical Exam Ottawa clinic that’s conveniently located and easy to access.

• Ask About Wait Times: A good clinic should offer short wait times and flexible appointment options. Clinics like The Ottawa Immigration Clinic even offer same-week appointments to help you meet tight immigration deadlines.

• Look for Full-Service Clinics: A clinic that offers on-site blood tests and x-rays, can save you time and hassle compared to visiting multiple locations.

What Happens After the Exam?

Once your exam is complete, the panel physician sends your results directly to IRCC. You don’t have to worry about forwarding documents or chasing down test results—they handle it all for you.

If everything is clear, you’ll move forward in your immigration process. But if the IRCC needs more information, they may ask for additional tests or specialist evaluations. This isn’t a reason to panic—it’s just part of the process. In such cases, your panel physician will guide you on what to do next.

Wrapping Up

The immigration medical exam is an important step of your journey to Canada. It is a way to ensure that everyone entering the country is healthy and supported. That’s why it’s so important to trust your exam to a qualified panel physician.

If you’re in the Ottawa area, our team at The Ottawa Immigration Clinic is here to help. Our panel physicians are IRCC-approved, experienced, and committed to making your immigration journey as smooth as possible. Book your appointment with The Ottawa Immigration Clinic today and get expert care from doctors who understand the process inside and out.