Are you planning to move to the United States or another country? One of the essential steps in the immigration process is completing an immigration physical exam. At Huz Shifamed, we specialize in providing comprehensive, accurate, and timely immigration physicals to help you meet the health requirements set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and other immigration authorities.
In this guide, we’ll explain what an immigration physical is, why it’s required, what to expect during the exam, and how our clinic at Huz Shifamed ensures you’re fully prepared for your immigration process.
What Is an Immigration Physical?
An immigration physical is a medical exam required by immigration authorities to ensure that an applicant is in good health and free from any communicable diseases that could pose a risk to public health. For U.S. immigration, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires this physical as part of the Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
This exam is conducted by an approved civil surgeon—a doctor authorized by USCIS to perform the required medical examinations. At Huz Shifamed, our experienced, certified medical professionals provide these services with the utmost care and professionalism.
Why Are Immigration Physicals Important?
Immigration physicals serve multiple purposes:
- Public Health Protection: Immigration authorities want to ensure that immigrants are not carrying diseases that could be a public health risk.
- Vaccination Requirements: The exam includes a review of your vaccination history and administration of required vaccines.
- Medical History Review: The exam ensures that applicants do not have medical conditions that could prevent them from entering the country or affect their ability to assimilate.
For U.S. immigration, applicants are typically screened for the following:
- Tuberculosis (TB): Screening for active TB is mandatory.
- Vaccine Requirements: Vaccines such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), chickenpox, polio, and others are part of the process.
- Mental Health Screening: USCIS may look for mental health conditions that could pose a danger to the individual or the public.
- Drug and Alcohol Abuse: Any history of addiction may be assessed.
By completing your immigration physical at Huz Shifamed, you are ensuring that you are fully compliant with the health requirements for immigration.
What to Expect During an Immigration Physical at Huz Shifamed
At Huz Shifamed, we prioritize your comfort and privacy throughout the entire medical examination process. Here’s what you can expect when you come in for your immigration physical exam:
1. Comprehensive Health Questionnaire
You will be asked to provide a detailed medical history, including any chronic conditions, medications you are currently taking, previous surgeries, allergies, and vaccination records. Be sure to bring along any prior medical records, as this will help us understand your health history better.
2. Physical Examination
Our certified civil surgeons will conduct a thorough physical exam, which typically includes:
- Height and weight measurement
- Blood pressure check
- Heart and lung examination
- General physical examination to assess overall health
3. Vaccination Check
You will be asked about your vaccination history. If you are missing any required vaccines (for instance, MMR, polio, or tetanus), we will provide them during the examination. Huz Shifamed offers on-site vaccinations for convenience.
4. Tuberculosis (TB) Test
A TB skin test or chest X-ray may be required, depending on your history and risk factors. If you’ve previously been vaccinated for tuberculosis, we may still need to perform the test for screening purposes.
5. Mental Health and Drug Screening
If necessary, we will ask about any history of mental health disorders or substance abuse. We understand the sensitive nature of this aspect and provide a safe, non-judgmental environment.
6. Additional Tests (If Required)
Depending on your health history, additional tests may be required. For example, if you’ve been in contact with someone who has an infectious disease, we may require further examination.
7. Completion of Form I-693
Once your exam is completed, we will fill out the Form I-693, which you will submit with your immigration application. The form includes details of the vaccinations, medical conditions, and the results of your physical exam.
Why Choose Huz Shifamed for Your Immigration Physical?
At Huz Shifamed, we understand how critical the immigration physical is to your overall immigration journey. Here’s why our clinic is the best choice for your exam:
- Certified Civil Surgeons: Our doctors are USCIS-approved civil surgeons with years of experience in handling immigration medical exams.
- Convenient, Same-Day Appointments: We offer flexible scheduling, including same-day appointments, so you don’t have to wait to get your immigration physical completed.
- Comprehensive Services: We offer vaccinations, TB testing, medical screenings, and all the necessary steps to fulfill the requirements of the immigration authorities.
- Compassionate Care: We understand that immigration can be a stressful process, and our team provides the support and understanding you need during your physical exam.
- Seamless Paperwork: We’ll help you complete the required Form I-693 accurately and promptly, ensuring that your paperwork is in order for submission to USCIS.
What Happens After the Immigration Physical?
Once you complete your immigration physical at Huz Shifamed, we will provide you with a sealed envelope containing the results of your examination. It’s important to not open the envelope, as USCIS requires that it remain sealed.
You will need to submit the sealed envelope as part of your immigration application. Be sure to keep a copy of all documents for your records.
How to Prepare for Your Immigration Physical
To ensure the process goes smoothly, here are some tips on how to prepare:
- Bring Your Medical Records: If possible, bring your vaccination records and any other relevant medical documents.
- Be Ready for a Physical Exam: Wear comfortable clothing, as you may be asked to change for the exam.
- Know Your Medical History: Be prepared to provide information on any medications you take and any ongoing medical conditions.
- Vaccinations: If you’re missing vaccinations, we will administer them during your appointment. You may want to check with us ahead of time to see if there are any required vaccinations.
Contact Huz Shifamed Today
If you’re ready to get your immigration physical or need more information, contact Huz Shifamed today to schedule an appointment. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the immigration medical examination process with professionalism and care.
We look forward to helping you take the next step toward a successful immigration journey. Book your appointment now and let us be part of your exciting future!