tishness said:
Yeah the cost is insanity - I wonder if the Canadian government regulates panel physician costs? Ohcanadiana?
They should be 'reasonable fees' that 'reflect local conditions and service charges' but in reality they can be pricey. If you have the option to shop around at all (e.g., if you're visiting Canada) explore that option.
Here's some interesting reading:
The handbook says:
"Panel members should charge reasonable fees and post a fees list in the clinic. Fees will reflect local conditions and service charges. Consequently, the fees for IMEs may vary from country to country and even within a country. If a panel member is completing a paper-based IME that must be mailed to the RMO, he or she should discuss the method and cost of sending the documents with the client beforehand."
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/resources/publications/dmp-handbook/index.asp#chap3.4.8
and also:
"3.1.1 General
All panel members are required to:
maintain familiarity with the latest version of this Handbook and all associated administrative and IME instructions;
follow instructions regarding verification of the client’s identity;
hold current professional registration and licensing issued by local or national regulatory authorities and provide proof thereof when requested by the RMO;
maintain the confidentiality of all immigration medical information in their control and store that information securely;
ensure that the fees charged for immigration medical services fairly represent the services performed and comply with local guidelines or those of a medical association or group;
ensure that a list of fees and charges for the IME and related expenses is posted in the clinic or office. The list should include fees for required radiological and laboratory investigations, for postage or courier charges, and for other services. Any special fees for groups or large families should also be listed. Copies should be available for clients on request and all clients should receive a receipt for services;
ensure that all panel clinic staff members under their supervision are aware of the requirements and standards for the IME and its procedures;
ensure that panel clinic staff understand the role and obligations that pertain to panel members;
ensure that individual and clinic contact information is up-to-date. eMedical users must keep their contact information updated in the system, while those who use paper-based forms must inform the RMO of changes in contact information; and
ensure high quality of work by all professionals involved in conducting IMEs, including staff members and specialist consultants."
(bolding mine)
There used to be greater competition (in Mexico City there were 2 or 3 separate practices and a few others 'in provincia') but the numbers have been dwindling with the integration with the US and Australia and conversion to eMedical (which does actually entail costs for the Panel Physicians).
)
