Immigrants face new screening for disease
Aim is to keep Canadians and newcomers healthy
Lynda Hurst
FEATURE WRITER
Concerned about health risks to the Canadian public and excess demands on the medicare system, Ottawa is about to get tougher on who it lets into the country.
Or, rather, on what infectious diseases they may bring in with them.
Would-be immigrants, already barred if they have active tuberculosis or syphilis, will soon be routinely screened for HIV and hepatitis B. Those infected with either will be denied entry.
In addition, the 1,400 overseas doctors contracted by Ottawa to do immigrants' medical examinations and oversee laboratory screening tests are to be more stringently monitored.
Aim is to keep Canadians and newcomers healthy
Lynda Hurst
FEATURE WRITER
Concerned about health risks to the Canadian public and excess demands on the medicare system, Ottawa is about to get tougher on who it lets into the country.
Or, rather, on what infectious diseases they may bring in with them.
Would-be immigrants, already barred if they have active tuberculosis or syphilis, will soon be routinely screened for HIV and hepatitis B. Those infected with either will be denied entry.
In addition, the 1,400 overseas doctors contracted by Ottawa to do immigrants' medical examinations and oversee laboratory screening tests are to be more stringently monitored.