In Canada on TWP, PR medicals just sent to Ottawa

Hi
Just curious - anybody here had experience of sending medicals to Ottawa from within Canada? (with PR application in process in Buffalo NY?) We are living in Vancouver currently on husband's TWP (end of yr 3), PR Medicals sent by DMP just today, and I need to know how long before Immigration Medicals are processed by Ottawa in order to be able to apply for extension of my open spousal permit? Does Buffalo have automatic access to the medical results when processed by Ottawa - or do they have to be physically sent there for further review?
We have followed many of the timelines here and most seem to be from applicants overseas, has anyone had recent experience, based in Canada, how long after submitting Medicals before Passport Requests were made, and how long do the Visa Office take to return passports? - we are concerned about being unable to travel out of Canada for the interim period. I'm aware it could be up to another 6 months before we hear a thing but am wondering is this the norm.? Anyone in similar situation?
thanks,
Helena.