Immigration and Naturalization Services - Medical Documentation

Finding a qualified INS doctor so you can complete your required medical documentation forms is important. Just because you have some health issues doesn't mean you won't be approved. This is different than a physical that is going to evaluate you to be able to complete a job or something similar.

What are they looking for?

When you see an INS doctor, they are attempting to verify certain types of information. They want to make sure you don't have Syphilis, Tuberculosis, or other types of health issues that can be passed along to other people. If you do test positive, they need to start treatment for you to reduce the risk of health problems and spreading it to others.

They are also looking to verify your immunizations are up to date. It is important for them to be done for both children and adults. There are fewer immunizations required for adults though who are trying to obtain their green card. Children who are considerably behind on getting their shots may need to have several appointments before they can get the medical approval.

The testing will include a blood test and skin test. The results only take a few days to get back. Evaluations regarding any missing immunizations are conducted too. It may be necessary to get those done at a later date if they can't all be done at that particular visit.

Good Health

If you are in good health, the INS doctor can complete those documents and send them in for you. They will give you a copy of them but they have to send originals directly to the agency for you. It is important to continue getting annual checkups and to seek medical attention when you need it.

Needing Health Care

Don't put off seeing an INS doctor just because you know you have some health concerns. This doesn't mean you aren't going to get your documents completed. Depending on their assessment and test results, they can create a treatment plan for you. There will be health problems that can be completely resolved.

Others may require ongoing care about at least they can prevent them from getting worse. There are very few health problems that would be a red flag with the agency. Your INS doctor will discuss this with you if there are any concerns that could hold up the documentation. They will also share with you the various options you have to get it moving in the right direction.

Sometimes, the medical exam is conducted order to gain approval for the individual to gain entry to the US. They are allowed to enter due to the fact they need detailed medical services that aren't being offered to them at their current location. It can take time to develop a plan of action to have them transported and for the procedures to be completed.

The individual may have to return to their land of origin though once the recovery period has passed and the doctor feels they are strong enough to do so. Coming to the US for medical care doesn't mean they can automatically stay. However, many do complete paperwork while they are recovering from a medical procedure in an attempt to be able to stay.

Communication and Comfort

Find a qualified INS doctor you trust and you feel comfortable around. It is important to learn about their qualifications before you see them. You want to know they have the expertise to help you. They should listen well and help you to feel your very best. Your connection with them needs to extend beyond just getting your paperwork filled out.