What might you expect from your immigrant medical examination?
If you want to immigrate to the United States to reunite with your family members, there are many steps to take. You will have to fill out forms, complete interviews and pay fees.
You will also likely need to complete a medical examination before your arrival in the U.S. But do you wonder about what that exam will cover and which tests the doctor will perform?
3 questions you might have about your exam
In most circumstances, a doctor will review your medical history, draw blood to test for syphilis and take an X-ray of your chest. In addition, they may examine your heart, skin, eyes, ears, nose, throat and lymph nodes.
Depending on the results of your exam, some questions might remain. These include:
- Will you have to get shots? There are certain immunizations, such as hepatitis, mumps, tetanus and measles, required for immigration purposes.
- Can you complete your medical exam in America? Visa applicants may not complete their medical examinations in the U.S. A physician approved by the embassy or consulate issuing the visa must conduct your exam.
- What do you do if you have a chronic medical condition? If you regularly take medications, you should know the names of your medications and understand what conditions they are being used to treat. It would be a good idea to present your list of prescribed medications along with a certificate which describes your condition and course of treatment.
It is important to remember that special circumstances are handled on an individual basis. Depending on the results of your exam, you can apply for a medical waiver for conditions determined to be grounds of inadmissibility.