If you are applying for a green card, or adjustment of status, in the United States, one of the crucial steps in your application process is undergoing an immigration medical examination. This exam is not just any routine check-up; it must be conducted by a physician specifically designated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These designated doctors are known as civil surgeons. For applicants searching for “Uscis Approved Doctors Near Me,” understanding who these doctors are and how to find them is essential for a smooth immigration process.
Who Are USCIS Civil Surgeons?
USCIS entrusts certain doctors, known as civil surgeons, to perform the immigration medical examinations required for most green card applicants. These aren’t just general practitioners; they have received a special designation from USCIS to ensure they understand and adhere to the specific medical requirements for immigration.
It’s important to note that military physicians at military treatment facilities within the U.S. are also authorized as military blanket designated civil surgeons. They can conduct immigration medical exams for U.S. veterans, active military members, and their designated dependents. Additionally, some health departments have blanket designated civil surgeons, particularly relevant for refugee applicants. These health department surgeons might not appear on the standard USCIS list but are authorized to perform the entire examination or parts of it. For detailed information on blanket designated civil surgeons, refer to the USCIS Policy Manual, Part C – Civil Surgeon Designation and Revocation.
It’s also crucial to differentiate civil surgeons from panel physicians. Panel physicians are appointed by the Department of State and are for immigration medical examinations performed outside the United States. They are involved in visa processing at U.S. Embassies or Consulates abroad and cannot conduct exams for applicants adjusting status within the U.S. with USCIS. Therefore, when looking for “uscis approved doctors near me,” you are specifically searching for civil surgeons within the United States.
Finding USCIS Approved Doctors Near You
The most reliable way to find “uscis approved doctors near me” is through the official USCIS website. USCIS provides a tool to locate civil surgeons in your area. Simply visit the USCIS website and navigate to their Civil Surgeon Locator page. Here, you can input your zip code to find a list of designated civil surgeons in your vicinity.
While online searches can also yield results for “uscis approved doctors near me,” always cross-reference any doctor you find with the official USCIS list to ensure their designation is current and valid. This verification step is vital to avoid any complications with your green card application due to an invalid medical examination.
Preparing for Your Medical Examination with USCIS Doctors
Once you have located “uscis approved doctors near me” and scheduled your appointment, it’s important to be prepared for your medical examination. Here’s what you should bring to your appointment:
What to Bring to Your Civil Surgeon Appointment
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record: Download and complete as much of Form I-693 as you can before your appointment.
- Government-issued photo identification: A valid passport or driver’s license is essential. If you are 14 years old or younger, bring identification that shows your name, date and place of birth, and your parents’ full names, such as a birth certificate (with an English translation) or an affidavit.
- Vaccination or immunization records: Bring records 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 vaccinations.
- Health insurance card: Inquire with the civil surgeon’s office if they accept your health insurance for immigration medical examinations. Be aware that many health insurance plans may not cover all aspects of this exam.
- Payment: Confirm with the civil surgeon’s office about their accepted payment methods. It’s advisable to call a few different “uscis approved doctors near me” to compare their fees for the immigration medical examination, as prices can vary significantly.
What to Expect During the Exam with USCIS Doctors
The immigration medical examination with “uscis approved doctors near me” involves a review of your medical history and a physical examination. The civil surgeon will conduct a comprehensive examination, including reviewing your medical history and performing a physical exam. They will also conduct tests for communicable diseases, such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea, as required by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), based on your age. The CDC provides detailed requirements for immigration medical examinations in their Technical Instructions for Civil Surgeons.
After the examination, the civil surgeon will complete Form I-693 and seal it in an envelope for you to submit directly to USCIS. Before the envelope is sealed, ensure you receive a copy of the completed Form I-693 for your personal records. USCIS will not accept the form if the envelope is opened or tampered with. For complete details about Form I-693, visit uscis.gov/i-693.
Addressing Concerns Regarding USCIS Civil Surgeons
If you encounter any issues or have concerns about a civil surgeon’s conduct or actions, you should contact your state medical board. For concerns specifically related to the immigration medical examination or Form I-693, you can contact the USCIS Contact Center for assistance.
Finding “uscis approved doctors near me” and completing your immigration medical examination is a critical step in your green card application process. By being well-informed and prepared, you can navigate this requirement efficiently and confidently.
