NATIONAL OFFICE MEMORANDUM
NO-10/2009

Sisters and Brothers:

In light of the numerous questions surrounding the issue of medical exams and costs, please note:

Employees do not have to submit to a medical exam by the employer’s doctor (Health Canada), they have the right to see a mutually agreed upon third party, please see the attached Federal Court decision which supports this position.

With regards to costs, the employer will pay for all related costs including time and travel when they request that an employee see a Health Canada doctor (or a mutually agreed upon third party). This includes situations when such consultations lead to being referred to a medical specialist.

If the employer refuses to pay the costs associated with a medical exam, it should immediately be grieved. If you have any related questions or encounter related issues when dealing with the employer, please do not hesitate contacting me.

In Solidarity, / En solidarité,

Karen Church
Equal Opportunity Representative / Représentante en matière d’accès à l’égalité