What Happens if My Results are Flagged?
Sometimes, after your initial Immigration Medical Exam (IME), Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request additional medical information or further testing. This is known as a medical furtherance.
Why Did IRCC Request More Tests?
A request for further testing does not necessarily mean your application will be denied. It simply means the IRCC medical officers need a clearer picture of your health. Common reasons for a furtherance include:
- Abnormalities found on your chest x-ray (often requiring a specialist or sputum tests to rule out tuberculosis).
- Elevated blood pressure or abnormal kidney function shown in your urine test.
- Abnormal blood test results (such as high blood sugar or signs of an infection).
- A pre-existing medical condition that requires a report from your family doctor or a specialist.
What You Need to Do Next
If you receive a furtherance letter from IRCC (an IMM 0535B form), do not panic, but act promptly, as these requests usually come with a strict deadline (often 30 to 60 days).
- Contact Us: Call or text our clinic right away. We can review the letter and explain exactly what needs to be done.
- Follow Instructions: We will help arrange any extra x-rays, lab tests, or specialist referrals that IRCC has requested.
- Submit Results: Once the new tests are completed, our panel physician will compile the reports and submit them back to IRCC via eMedical.
Important Note on Costs
Please be aware that any additional testing, specialist visits, or x-rays requested by IRCC are not covered by your initial exam fee. You are responsible for the costs associated with these further tests.