Applying for a green card in the U.S. involves several steps, and one crucial requirement is undergoing an immigration medical examination. This examination must be conducted by a physician specifically authorized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These Doctors Find themselves designated as civil surgeons, entrusted to perform these essential medical evaluations for green card applicants. Understanding who these doctors are and how to find them is a key part of the adjustment of status process.
Understanding the Role of a Civil Surgeon
USCIS designates certain doctors find qualified based on their expertise and adherence to specific guidelines to act as civil surgeons. These medical professionals are the only ones authorized to perform immigration medical exams within the United States for green card applicants. For U.S. veterans, active military personnel, and their dependents, military physicians at military treatment facilities also doctors find authorization as blanket designated civil surgeons. It’s important to note that these military and certain health department doctors find designated status may not appear on the standard USCIS online search tool for civil surgeons.
For immigration medical exams required outside the U.S., a different system is in place. The Department of State appoints panel physicians for examinations conducted as part of visa processing at U.S. embassies or consulates abroad. Panel physicians and civil surgeons operate under distinct authorities and for different stages of the immigration process. Panel physicians cannot perform exams for those applying for adjustment of status within the United States.
Where to Find Civil Surgeons: USCIS and Beyond
The most direct way to doctors find a civil surgeon is through the USCIS website. They provide a tool to search for designated civil surgeons in your area. However, it’s important to understand the different categories of designated doctors:
- USCIS Designated Civil Surgeons: These are the doctors find listed in the official USCIS search tool and are authorized to perform the full immigration medical examination for most green card applicants.
- Blanket Designated Civil Surgeons: This category includes military physicians and some health department doctors. While not always listed on the USCIS search, they are authorized to conduct immigration medical exams, or parts of them, under specific circumstances, such as for refugees or at military facilities. Refugee applicants might doctors find assistance at their local health department, where blanket designated civil surgeons may be available.
To ensure you are seeing the correct type of doctor, always confirm their designated status. For civil surgeons found through the USCIS search, their designation is confirmed by their presence on the list. For blanket designated civil surgeons, especially at health departments, it’s advisable to inquire about their specific authorization to perform immigration medical examinations.
Preparing for Your Medical Examination: What Doctors Need from You
To make your medical examination as smooth as possible, it’s crucial to bring the necessary documents and information to your appointment. When you doctors find and schedule your exam, ensure you have the following ready:
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record: While the civil surgeon will complete this form, bringing a blank copy can be helpful for your reference.
- Government-issued Photo Identification: A valid passport or driver’s license is essential. For children 14 and under, a birth certificate (with English translation) or affidavit is acceptable if it includes name, date and place of birth, and parents’ full names.
- Vaccination or Immunization Records: Bring any records you have of vaccinations, including but not limited to DT, DTP, DTaP, Td, Tdap, OPV, IPV, MMR, Hib, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, varicella, pneumococcal influenza, rotavirus, meningococcal disease, and COVID-19 vaccines.
- Health Insurance Card: Inquire with the civil surgeon’s office if they accept your health insurance for immigration medical examinations. Be aware that many insurance plans may not cover all aspects of this exam.
- Payment: Confirm with the civil surgeon’s office their accepted forms of payment. The cost of immigration medical examinations can vary, so it’s wise to call a few offices to compare prices.
What Doctors Do During the Examination
The immigration medical examination is a comprehensive assessment of your health. The civil surgeon, the doctors find designated for this purpose, will conduct several steps:
- Review of Medical History: The doctor will ask you about your past medical conditions, treatments, and any relevant health information.
- Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam will be performed to assess your overall health status.
- Tests for Communicable Diseases: Depending on your age and CDC guidelines, you may be tested for communicable diseases such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea. The CDC provides detailed Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons, outlining the specific requirements for the examination.
After the examination, the civil surgeon will complete Form I-693 and provide it to you in a sealed envelope to be submitted to USCIS. Before the envelope is sealed, make sure to request a copy of the completed Form I-693 for your personal records. USCIS will not accept forms if the envelope has been opened or tampered with.
Addressing Concerns: Reporting Issues with Civil Surgeons
While most civil surgeons are reputable professionals, if you encounter any concerns regarding a civil surgeon’s conduct or actions, you have avenues to report them. If your concerns relate to ethical behavior or professional conduct, you can contact your state medical board. For concerns specifically about the immigration medical examination process or Form I-693, you can contact the USCIS Contact Center.
Finding a designated civil surgeon is a necessary step in your green card application. By understanding who these doctors find are, where to locate them, and what to expect during the medical examination, you can navigate this process with greater confidence. Remember to prepare thoroughly for your appointment and to communicate any concerns through the appropriate channels.
