Can a reference letter from a physician who is also a family member/relative be used?

There is nothing in the CaRMS contract prohibiting an applicant from requesting/using a reference letter from a doctor who is a paternal family member.

However, everything needs to follow the expected reference guidelines such as the letter must stay confidential and cannot be shared with the applicant. The reference guidelines state there must be a confidentiality statement indicating the applicant has not seen or will not receive a copy of the letter. We don't recommend anything stating they are family and to just keep it professional.