i-693 Medical Exam Near Me: Everything You Need to Know

Last Updated on July 5, 2023 by Lily

If you are seeking an adjustment of status in the United States, you will likely come across the requirement of undergoing an i-693 medical exam. This examination is crucial for determining whether you are admissible to the country on health grounds. In this article, we will guide you through the i-693 medical exam, its purpose, the process involved, and where to find a qualified medical examiner near you.

Purpose of the i-693 Medical Exam

The i-693 medical exam serves two primary purposes: health screening for immigration applicants and determining admissibility based on health grounds.

Health Screening for Immigration Applicants:

The i-693 medical exam is designed to assess the overall health status of individuals who are seeking to adjust their immigration status in the United States. It ensures that prospective immigrants do not have any communicable diseases or health conditions that could pose a threat to public health or safety. By conducting a thorough medical examination, the immigration authorities aim to protect both the individuals themselves and the general population from the spread of contagious diseases.

Determining Admissibility Based on Health Grounds:

The results of the i-693 medical exam play a vital role in determining an individual’s admissibility into the United States. The medical examination helps identify any medical conditions that may render an individual inadmissible, as outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Some health-related grounds for inadmissibility include:

Communicable Diseases: If an applicant has a communicable disease that poses a public health threat, they may be considered inadmissible. Examples of such diseases include tuberculosis (TB), syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV/AIDS. However, it’s important to note that having a communicable disease does not automatically make someone inadmissible. The severity of the disease, the potential for transmission, and the availability of treatment options are all considered.

Lack of Vaccinations: The i-693 medical exam also includes a review of the applicant’s vaccination history. If an individual does not have the required vaccinations for preventable diseases, they may be deemed inadmissible. In such cases, the medical examiner may administer the necessary vaccines during the examination, if appropriate and available.

Physical or Mental Disorders: Certain physical or mental disorders that can pose a threat to the individual or the community may result in inadmissibility. Examples include substance abuse disorders, mental health conditions associated with harmful behavior, and physical disabilities that would interfere with an individual’s ability to support themselves financially.

Drug Abuse or Addiction: If an applicant has a history of drug abuse or addiction, they may be found inadmissible. The medical examination may include a drug screening to identify any current or past drug abuse.

It is important to note that some health conditions or disabilities may qualify for a waiver or exception if the individual can demonstrate that they will not pose a threat to public health or safety, or that they have received appropriate treatment or rehabilitation.

Required Documentation

When undergoing the i-693 medical exam, there are certain documents that you will need to provide to the designated civil surgeon. These documents are essential for completing the examination and ensuring that the required information is accurately recorded. The following are the required documents for the i-693 medical exam:

Form i-693:

The most important document for the i-693 medical exam is Form i-693, also known as the Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. This form is provided by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and must be completed by a designated civil surgeon. The form consists of several sections, including personal information, medical history, and vaccination records. It is crucial to ensure that the form is fully completed, signed, and dated by the civil surgeon.

Vaccination Records:

You will need to provide documentation of your vaccination history as part of the i-693 medical exam. The civil surgeon will review your immunization records to determine if you have received the required vaccines according to the guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for immigrant applicants. It is advisable to gather any available vaccination records, such as those from your previous medical providers or immunization clinics. If you do not have complete vaccination records, the civil surgeon may administer missing vaccines during the medical examination, as deemed necessary.

Government-Issued Identification:

To establish your identity, you will need to present a valid government-issued identification document, such as a passport, driver’s license, or national identification card. This identification is required to verify your identity and ensure that the medical examination results are associated with the correct individual.

It is important to bring the original versions of these documents to the medical examination. Make sure that your identification document is not expired and that it contains your photograph and full legal name, which should match the information provided in the i-693 form.

By ensuring that you have the necessary documentation, including the completed i-693 form, vaccination records, and valid government-issued identification, you will be well-prepared for your i-693 medical exam. Remember to review the requirements and gather all the required documents before your scheduled appointment to ensure a smooth and efficient examination process.

The Process of the i-693 Medical Exam

Finding a Qualified Civil Surgeon

Choosing an authorized and qualified civil surgeon is crucial for the i-693 medical exam. Here are some key points to consider:

Importance of Choosing an Authorized Medical Examiner:

It is essential to select a civil surgeon who is authorized by the USCIS to conduct the i-693 medical exam. Authorized civil surgeons have the necessary training and knowledge to properly administer the examination, complete the required forms, and provide accurate medical assessments. Choosing an authorized medical examiner ensures that your examination will be recognized and accepted by the USCIS.

Utilizing Official Resources to Locate a Civil Surgeon Near You:

The USCIS provides official resources to help you find authorized civil surgeons in your area. You can visit the USCIS website and use the “Find a Doctor” tool, also known as the Civil Surgeon Locator. This online tool allows you to search for authorized civil surgeons by entering your location, such as your city or ZIP code. The search results will provide you with a list of authorized civil surgeons near you, along with their contact information.

Scheduling the Exam

Once you have identified a qualified civil surgeon, the next step is to schedule your i-693 medical exam. Here’s what you need to do:

Contacting the Medical Examiner’s Office:

Reach out to the office of the chosen civil surgeon to schedule your appointment. You can call the provided contact number or check if they have an online appointment booking system. During the call, inform them that you require the i-693 medical exam and inquire about their availability.

Discussing the Availability and Necessary Preparations:

When scheduling the appointment, ask about the available dates and times that work for you. It is also a good idea to inquire about any specific preparations you may need to make before the exam. For example, the medical examiner may advise you to bring certain documents, fasting requirements, or instructions for specific tests.

Completing the i-693 Form

The i-693 form is a crucial part of the i-693 medical exam. Here’s what you should keep in mind when completing the form:

Providing Accurate Personal Information:

Ensure that you provide accurate and up-to-date personal information on the i-693 form. This includes your full legal name, date of birth, address, and contact information. Double-check the information for any errors or omissions before submitting the form.

Disclosing Medical History Truthfully:

When completing the medical history section of the i-693 form, it is important to be truthful and thorough. Provide details about any past or current medical conditions, surgeries, hospitalizations, and treatments. The civil surgeon needs accurate information to assess your health status correctly.

Clarifying any Prior Medical Treatments or Conditions:

If you have undergone any significant medical treatments or have existing medical conditions, provide additional information and medical records, if available. This will help the civil surgeon understand your medical history better and ensure accurate evaluation.

The Medical Examination

The i-693 medical exam consists of several components that the civil surgeon will perform. Here’s what you can expect during the examination:

Components of the Exam:

Physical Examination: The civil surgeon will conduct a comprehensive physical examination, which may include measuring height, weight, blood pressure, listening to the heart and lungs, and examining various body systems.
Tuberculosis (TB) Testing: The civil surgeon will administer a tuberculin skin test (TST) or a blood test (interferon-gamma release assay) to screen for tuberculosis. This test helps identify if you have an active or latent TB infection.

Vaccination Review and Administration, if Needed: The civil surgeon will review your vaccination records and assess if you have received the required vaccines according to the CDC guidelines. If you have missing or incomplete vaccinations, the civil surgeon may administer them during the examination, based on your age and medical eligibility.

Potential Health Conditions that may Affect Admissibility:

During the medical examination, the civil surgeon will be alert for any health conditions that could potentially impact your admissibility. This includes communicable diseases, mental health disorders associated with harmful behavior, substance abuse history, and physical disabilities that may interfere with your ability to support yourself.

Obtaining and Submitting the Completed Form i-693

Once the medical examination is completed, it is important to follow the necessary steps to obtain and submit the completed i-693 form:

Ensuring the Form is Fully Completed and Signed:

Verify that all sections of the i-693 form are filled out accurately and completely. The civil surgeon will provide their assessment and complete the required portions of the form, including signing and dating it. Make sure all the information is legible and clearly written.

Including Required Supporting Documents:

Gather all the required supporting documents to be submitted along with the i-693 form. This typically includes a copy of your identification document (such as a passport), vaccination records, and any additional medical records or documentation relevant to your medical history.

Submitting the Form to the Appropriate Authority:

After obtaining the completed i-693 form and supporting documents, it is your responsibility to submit them to the appropriate authority. The specific instructions for submission will be provided by the USCIS or the entity that requested the i-693 medical exam. Follow the guidelines carefully to ensure timely and accurate submission.

By understanding the process of the i-693 medical exam, including finding a qualified civil surgeon, scheduling the exam, completing the i-693 form accurately, undergoing the medical examination, and submitting the completed form and supporting documents, you can navigate this requirement successfully as part of your immigration journey.

Finding an i-693 Medical Exam Near You

When it comes to finding an i-693 medical exam near you, there are several avenues you can explore. Here are some effective methods to help you locate a qualified civil surgeon or medical facility to conduct the exam.

Official Resources

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Website:

The USCIS website is a valuable official resource for information on immigration-related matters. Visit the USCIS website and navigate to the “Find a Doctor” tool or the Civil Surgeon Locator. This tool allows you to search for authorized civil surgeons by entering your location details, such as city, state, or ZIP code. The search results will provide a list of authorized civil surgeons near you, along with their contact information.

Online Civil Surgeon Locator Tool:

The Civil Surgeon Locator tool, available on the USCIS website, is a convenient way to find authorized civil surgeons in your area. Simply enter your location details, and the tool will generate a list of authorized civil surgeons along with their contact information. This ensures that the civil surgeon you choose is recognized by USCIS and qualified to perform the i-693 medical exam.

Local Immigration Clinics or Physicians

Searching for Immigration Clinics in Your Area:

Research local immigration clinics in your area that specialize in providing medical services to immigrants. These clinics often have experienced civil surgeons who are familiar with the i-693 medical exam requirements. Use online search engines or directories to find immigration clinics near you, and check their websites or contact them directly to inquire about their services and availability for the i-693 medical exam.

Contacting Local Physicians with Immigration Expertise:

Reach out to local physicians or medical practices that have expertise in immigration-related medical examinations. These physicians may have experience in conducting the i-693 medical exam or can refer you to a qualified civil surgeon. Call their offices and inquire about their experience with immigration medical exams and if they can assist you with the i-693 exam.

Recommendations and Referrals

Seeking Advice from Friends, Family, or Immigration Lawyers:

Consult friends, family members, or colleagues who have gone through the immigration process and have undergone the i-693 medical exam. They may be able to provide recommendations based on their personal experiences. Additionally, if you have hired an immigration lawyer to assist with your case, reach out to them for recommendations or referrals to authorized civil surgeons or immigration clinics.

Joining Online Immigration Forums for Recommendations:

Participate in online immigration forums, discussion boards, or social media groups focused on immigration matters. Engage with other individuals who have gone through the i-693 medical exam and inquire about their experiences and recommendations for authorized civil surgeons or medical facilities in your area. These online communities can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on firsthand experiences.

When searching for an i-693 medical exam near you, it is important to verify that the civil surgeon or medical facility is authorized by USCIS to perform the exam. Consider factors such as proximity, availability, reputation, and expertise when making your choice. Remember to contact the civil surgeon or medical facility in advance to schedule an appointment and inquire about any specific requirements or documents you need to bring to the examination.

Tips for a Successful i-693 Medical Exam

To ensure a successful i-693 medical exam and avoid potential complications, it is important to be well-prepared and follow the instructions provided by the medical examiner. Here are some tips to help you have a smooth and successful experience during your i-693 medical exam.

Prepare in Advance

Gathering Required Documents:

Before the exam, gather all the required documents such as your identification document, vaccination records, and any relevant medical records. Ensure that these documents are organized and readily accessible to present to the medical examiner.

Reviewing Your Medical History:

Take the time to review your medical history and familiarize yourself with any significant medical conditions, treatments, or surgeries you have undergone. This will help you provide accurate information during the examination and ensure that you disclose any relevant details to the medical examiner.

Follow Instructions

Adhering to Specific Guidance from the Medical Examiner:

Listen carefully to the instructions provided by the medical examiner during the examination. They may provide specific guidance on procedures to follow, such as fasting requirements, timing of medications, or other preparations. It is important to follow these instructions to ensure accurate results and a smooth examination process.

Completing Any Necessary Pre-exam Procedures:

In some cases, the medical examiner may request specific procedures or tests to be completed before the examination. This could include laboratory tests, imaging studies, or other diagnostic procedures. Make sure to complete these pre-exam procedures as instructed to ensure that all necessary information is available for the examination.

Be Honest and Transparent

Providing Accurate Information During the Examination:

Be truthful and provide accurate information during the i-693 medical exam. The medical examiner relies on your honesty to assess your health accurately and determine your admissibility based on health grounds. Provide details about any current or past health conditions, surgeries, hospitalizations, or treatments. This includes mental health conditions and substance abuse history, as appropriate.

Disclosing Any Known Health Conditions or Treatments:

If you have any known health conditions or ongoing treatments, ensure that you disclose this information to the medical examiner. It is important to provide a comprehensive overview of your medical history to help the medical examiner make an informed assessment.

Remember that the i-693 medical exam is a formal evaluation of your health for immigration purposes. Providing false or incomplete information may have serious consequences for your immigration application. It is in your best interest to be honest and transparent throughout the process.

Conclusion

The i-693 medical exam is an essential step for individuals seeking an adjustment of status in the United States. This comprehensive examination ensures that applicants are admissible based on health grounds. By understanding the purpose, process, and where to find a qualified medical examiner near you, you can navigate this requirement with ease. Remember to prepare in advance, follow instructions carefully, and be honest during the exam. By doing so, you will increase your chances of a successful outcome in your immigration journey.