How to obtain a medical certificate for work or school?
Obtaining a medical certificate in Calgary is an important process that may be required for a variety of purposes, from confirming your ability to work to attending school or participating in sports activities. Understanding the process, requirements, and available options will help you obtain the necessary documentation efficiently and quickly.
1. Main types of medical certificates
1.1. Sick Notes
- Confirm that you are unable to perform your duties due to health reasons
- Doctors charge for this service as it is not covered by AHCIP
- The note must contain a minimum amount of medical information
1.2. Return to Work Notes
- Confirm medical fitness after illness/injury
- Include diagnosis, date of last examination, recommendations for restrictions
1.3. Certificates for educational institutions
- Deferral
- Leave of Absence
- Withdrawal
- Must include the impact of the health condition on the educational process
1.4. Medical certificates for immigrants
- Required for employment in healthcare, childcare, and agriculture
- Issued only by IRCC-authorized panel physicians
2. Where to obtain medical certificates
2.1. Traditional clinics
Seton Medical Clinic
| Type of certificate | Cost |
|---|---|
| Medical certificate of fitness or illness | $50 |
| Letter with diagnosis | $30 |
| Lost prescription/form | $20 |
| Out-of-country visit | $75 |
| Driver medical exam (up to age 74.5) | $150 |
| Parking permit for persons with disabilities | $75 |
| Pre-employment medical exam | $140 |
Pine Creek Medical Clinic
- Doctor's note for illness: $20
- Out-of-province exam: $75
- Out-of-country exam: $150
2.2. Online and virtual services
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Skip the Doctor | Video consultation, instant digital referral, 24/7 access |
| Online-Doctor.ca | Consultations covered by AHCIP, prescriptions, referrals, mental health |
| Tia Health | Online appointments, referral after consultation |
| MD Connected | Forms for work, school, WSIB; complete online diagnosis |
2.3. Specialized medical centers
Ultima Medical Services
| Type of examination | Cost |
|---|---|
| Pre-employment screening | $270 |
| Aviation medical examination (CAM) | $275 |
| ECG | $86–88 |
| Audiogram | $70 |
| Spirometry | $120 |
| Laboratory tests | ≈ $220 |
| Respirator fit test | $90 |
3. Cost of medical certificates
| Type of certificate | Cost range |
|---|---|
| Certificate of illness/fitness | $20–50 |
| Letter with diagnosis | $30 |
| Driver medical exam | $150 |
| Preliminary medical exam | $140–270 |
| Online consultation with certificate | Depends on provider |
Non-residents:
- Walk-in examination: $150–250
- Urgent care: $900+ + doctor's fee $200+
4. Specialized certificates
4.1. Sports and fitness certificates
- Confirm readiness for intense exercise after a concussion
- Include level of permitted activity and recommendations
4.2. Professional certificates
| Type of certificate | Cost |
|---|---|
| CPSA Certificate of Professional Conduct (standard) | $100 + GST |
| CPSA CPC (expedited) | $200 + GST |
| Additional certificate (same day) | $25 + GST |
4.3. Driver medical examinations
- Mandatory for Class 1–7 licenses, especially for senior and commercial drivers
5. Certificate application process
5.1. Preparing for your visit
- Alberta Health Care card
- Passport or driver's license
- Employer/school requirements
- Medical history and list of medications
5.2. Online certificates
- Booking through the platform
- Completing the form
- Video consultation
- Receiving the digital certificate
5.3. Processing time
- Online: immediately
- Traditional clinics: during the visit or 1–2 days
- Immigration/CPSA forms: up to 30 days
6. Legal and ethical considerations
- The certificate must include the doctor's details, registration number, diagnosis, signature, and stamp
- Employers must pay for mandatory certificates and respect confidentiality
- Certificate fraud is punishable by law; verification is carried out through AHS and CPSA
7. Alternatives and recommendations
- EAP – assistance for employees with free counseling
- Health Link 811 – 24/7 medical advice
- Prevention: regular checkups, vaccinations, healthy lifestyle
8. Practical tips
- Assess the employer/school's requirements in advance
- Choose a clinic with transparent rates and licensed doctors
- Keep copies of certificates and receipts for tax and personal records
Conclusion: Obtaining a medical certificate in Calgary has become more accessible thanks to a variety of traditional and online services. Planning, preparation, and understanding the costs will allow you to quickly obtain the necessary document with minimal effort.