The immigration medical exam is one of the most important parts of the immigration process. It’s a requirement by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to ensure the applicants meet the health standards to live in the United States. But what does it entail? Where can it be conducted? And what is its connection with cheek fat? This article gives light on the all you need to know about the immigration medical exam near your location.
What is the Immigration Medical Exam?
An immigration medical exam is a health checkup that’s a requirement for individuals applying for adjustment of status (Visa or Green Card) or who are required by the USCIS to ensure they don’t pose a public health risk. This is a critical mandate of the immigration process, with the exams only performed by USCIS-approved physicians, also known as civil surgeons.
Components of the Immigration Medical Exam
The medical examination encompasses several aspects of an individual’s health and physical status. Aside from the full physical examination including the examination of eyes, ears, heart, lung, abdomen and lymph nodes, an cheek fat analysis may also be performed to provide insight about your dietary habits and overall nutritive health. This part is usually simple and non-invasive, entailing an analysis of your cheeks to determine its fat content, which could be indicative of your health baseline.
Besides, the examination also includes vaccination assessment to verify if your immunizations are up-to-date, a mental health assessment, and a tuberculosis skin test. If required, applicants may also be tested for sexually transmitted diseases, including syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV/AIDS.
Finding an Immigration Medical Exam Near Me
As mentioned, immigration medical exams can only be performed by USCIS-approved civil surgeon. Thus, when you’re attempting to find ‘immigration medical exam near me,’ focus on locating a USCIS-approved physician in your locality.
You can start by checking the USCIS’s official website for the list of approved civil surgeons in your area or use their online tool to find one nearest to you. Alternatively, you can contact your local health provider or inquire from local health departments for recommendations.
Preparation for the Exam
Preparation for your immigration medical exam is essential. Aside from ensuring you are mentally and physically prepared for the test, you need to gather a few necessary documents for your appointment. These include your official photo identification, medical insurance card (if you have one), and vaccination record. It’s also advisable to bring your regular medications if any, and the ‘Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record’-Form I-693.
You are also advised to drink ample water and have a good night’s sleep before your exam. As mentioned, don’t be alarmed if cheek fat analysis is a part of your exam; it’s as simple as looking into your mouth.
What Happens After the Exam?
Once the exam is complete, the USCIS-approved civil surgeon will review the results and issue you a completed Form I-693 in a sealed envelope for submission to the USCIS. You should not accept or open the envelope under any circumstances, as it must go directly to USCIS. If you wish to have a copy of the results, you should request them from the civil surgeon before leaving the office.
Conclusion
In summary, the immigration medical exam is a crucial component of the immigration process. It’s important to find a USCIS-approved ‘immigration medical exam near me’ to complete the procedure. Moreover, understanding the procedure and preparing adequately not only speeds up the process but also reduces any causes for rejection by the USCIS.