Civil Surgeons vs. Panel Physicians
The United States government is very serious about thoroughly screening people who apply for nonimmigration visas and green cards. Besides personal information, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, or USCIS, checks character references as well as a person’s health. To have a medical examination for USCIS, you must go through a licensed and USCIS-approved provider.
Medical exams for USCIS can be provided by civil surgeons or panel physicians. However, these two positions are not synonymous. To make sure that you have everything you need for staying in the United States, you should contact a knowledgeable Orange County immigration lawyer from Garg & Associates, P.C. today at 949-540-6704.
What are Civil Surgeons?
When you want to apply for a change to your visa status or want a V nonimmigrant status, you must undergo a medical examination by a civil surgeon. However, if you already had an examination overseas, you may not need another full examination. USCIS designates civil surgeons, and not all doctors carry this status. The examination from civil surgeons includes:
- Physical check-up
- TB skin test
- Blood test for sexually transmitted infections
- Double-checking to make sure you have all of your required vaccinations
The Purpose of Panel Physicians
Like civil surgeons, panel physicians perform required medical exams for people wishing to enter the United States. However, in contrast to civil surgeons, panel physicians are overseas and are affiliated with U.S. embassies and consulates. They perform examinations according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) standards. The CDC requires that panel physicians check potential immigrants for the following:
- Medical history
- Physical and mental abnormalities and disorders
- Tuberculosis
- Venereal diseases
- Hansen’s disease
- Substance abuse
- Vaccinations
If you are applying to come to the U.S. or change your status, it is important to make sure that you fulfill all USCIS requirements, including your medical exam. Talk to a lawyer today about making sure your application is in order.
Contact Us
At Garg & Associates, P.C., we understand that the application to change your nonimmigrant status or to become a naturalized citizen can be difficult and confusing, and we want to help you achieve your goals. To discuss your case, contact a caring Orange County immigration attorney from Garg & Associates, P.C. at 949-540-6704 today.
