What Happens During an Immigration Physical?

Are you a new resident in the United States living in Tigard and need to find a Civil Surgeon for your Immigration Physical? Whether you’re in Metzger or Crestwood, AFC Urgent Care Tigard is conveniently located and ready to assist with your civil surgeon exam.

Schedule an Immigration Physical at AFC Urgent Care Tigard today.

What is a Civil Surgeon Exam?

A civil surgeon exam, commonly known as an immigration physical, is a mandatory step for all green card applicants. This comprehensive health assessment ensures that applicants do not have any medical conditions that could pose a threat to public health or impose a significant burden on the U.S. healthcare system. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) mandates this exam to screen for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and syphilis, and to verify that applicants are up-to-date on required vaccinations, thereby protecting public health and ensuring a healthy immigrant population.

If you're preparing for your immigration physical, here's a detailed guide on what to expect and how to prepare for each step of the process.

Before Your Visit: Pre-registration

Complete the I-693 Form

Before your appointment, it's important to fill out the I-693 form, also known as the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. We will send this form via email, allowing you to complete it electronically. This step is crucial for a smooth and efficient process.

Gather Necessary Documentation

To ensure a smooth experience, prepare the following items to bring with you to your appointment:

• Government-issued ID (with a photo) for yourself and any children immigrating with you
• Vaccination records translated into English, if necessary
• Medical records including hospital discharge summaries, specialist reports, or records of past treatments
• Prior chest x-rays or other diagnostic tests, if applicable
• Documentation of tuberculosis treatment or antibodies
• Mental health records, if applicable
• USCIS correspondence you've received, if applicable
• Payment method – cash or credit card

Consider an Interpreter

If you need interpretation services, it's advisable to bring a family member or friend over 18 years old. Alternatively, you can request an interpreter from the clinic, though this may incur a fee. At AFC Urgent Care, the fee is $175, and you should request this service at least two days in advance.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Looser clothing will make the physical examination more comfortable and convenient.

Prepare for Specimen Collection

To ensure accurate test results, plan to hold your urine for at least four hours before your appointment, drink plenty of water, and eat a wholesome meal prior to your blood draw.

Appointment #1: Paperwork and Initial Tests

What to Expect

Plan to arrive 30 minutes early for your first appointment. This visit involves:

• Reviewing your application details
• Ensuring you have all the necessary documentation
• Collecting blood samples for required tests based on your age range

All this information will be documented on your Form I-693, an essential part of your immigration application package.

Appointment #2: The Civil Surgeon Exam

Scheduled about a week later, your second visit will be with a USCIS-approved doctor, known as a civil surgeon. These doctors specialize in conducting immigration physicals and ensuring that applicants meet the health requirements for permanent residency.

Health History Review

The civil surgeon will begin by reviewing your health history in detail. Be prepared to discuss:

• Any past medical conditions
• Medications you are currently taking
• Any surgeries you have undergone

Comprehensive Physical Examination

The civil surgeon will perform a thorough physical examination, which includes checking your:

• Heart
• Lungs
• Reflexes
• Overall well-being

Additional Tests and Vaccinations

Based on your health history and the physical exam, the civil surgeon may recommend additional vaccinations or tests. This could include:

A chest x-ray

Blood tests for specific diseases

Mental health evaluations

Schedule Your Immigration Physical at AFC Urgent Care Tigard Today

Navigating the immigration physical process can be daunting, but with the right preparation, it can be straightforward and stress-free. By following these guidelines and preparing in advance, you'll ensure a smooth experience. Schedule your immigration physical at AFC Urgent Care Tigard today and take the next step towards your green card with confidence.