An immigration medical exam is a vital step in the process of applying for a green card or citizenship. We want to help you feel calm and ready. We’ll guide you on what to do before, on exam day and after the exam.
What Is the Immigration Medical Exam?
The exam checks your health. The doctor looks for certain diseases. The doctor also checks if you need vaccines. The report aids U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in determining the outcome of your application.
At Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care in Corona, Dr. George Chidi, MD and our team are authorized to do the exam. We also serve Riverside and nearby areas. We can do the tests, give vaccines and finish the official form.
Why You Should Prepare
A little preparation saves time. It can stop delays in your application. If you bring the right papers and medical info, the visit will go faster. You will feel less worried. We will be able to help you right away.
Papers and Records to Bring
Bring these items with you:
- Form I-693 if you already have it.
- Your vaccine or immunization records.
- A government-issued identification, such as a passport or a driver’s license.
- Your health insurance card, in case you own one.
If you have medical notes or lab results from past doctors, bring them too. If you have ever had treatment for drug use, bring proof of program completion.
Health Steps before the Exam
Do these simple steps:
- Check your vaccine records. See what shots you had.
- If you are missing vaccines, talk to us before the exam. We can give needed shots.
- Make a list of your medicines. Specify the dosage and the frequency of administration.
- If you have had tuberculosis, syphilis, or other major illnesses, bring records.
- If you use tobacco, alcohol, or drugs, be honest with the doctor. This is important.
If you believe you may be pregnant, let the clinic know when you make your appointment. Pregnant people still get tested. They will need to give consent for a chest X-ray.
What to Expect During the Exam
The exam is different from a regular checkup. The doctor will:
- Ask about your health history.
- Ask about the medicines you take.
- Check your eyes, ears, nose and throat.
- Listen to your heart and lungs.
- Do a mental status check to see mood and behavior.
- Give a skin test or chest X-ray for tuberculosis.
- Do a blood test for syphilis.
If a vaccine is needed, the doctor will tell you. We may give the vaccine at the visit. If you need more tests, we will tell you what to do next.
If Tests Show a Problem
Some health issues must be treated first. These include certain contagious diseases, drug or alcohol abuse, or serious mental health problems with a violent history. If the doctor finds any of these, we will explain the steps you must take. Many problems can be treated. Treatment may allow your application to move forward.
Why an Urgent Care Clinic Is Helpful
Get tests and shots at Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care, no need to visit multiple offices. We can often give care without long waits. The doctor completes Form I-693 after the exam and gives it to you in a sealed envelope. Keep the envelope closed. It should be delivered to USCIS without being opened. Ask for a copy of the completed form before we seal it.
Tips for the Day of the Exam
- Wear a shirt that is easy to roll up for blood draws.
- Eat and drink normally unless the clinic says not to.
- Bring someone with you if you feel nervous.
- Bring any missing vaccine records if you found them at the last minute.
- Arrive a little early to fill out forms.
After the Exam
Keep your copy of the form and records in a safe place. If the doctor gives you more shots, keep the vaccine card. If you need treatment, follow the plan. If you must get more vaccines, come back as told.
Final Notes
We know this process can feel big. You do not have to do it alone. At Medicross Clinic and Urgent Care in Corona, Dr. George Chidi, MD and our staff help you step by step. We do the medical exam, tests and vaccines in one visit when possible. We serve Riverside and nearby areas.
If you are ready, call to make an appointment. Bring your ID and vaccine records. We will make the exam clear and simple for you.
You are taking an important step. We will help you through it.
FAQs
Q. What if I have a history of drug use?
Be honest with the doctor. You may need tests or proof of treatment for the application.
Q. Why do I need the exam?
USCIS needs to know you are healthy and have required shots. The report helps your application move forward.