Immigration Medical Exam

Pregnancy is a time of joy and a new experience for every expectant mother, but it can also be full of questions, especially when dealing with the U.S. immigration system. Pregnant women seeking green cards must understand the effect their condition has on their green card medical exam in NYC.

Here, this article can guide you on what pregnant women can expect during the immigration medical exam, how to prepare well, and the different options to protect fetal and maternal health on the way.

What is the Immigration Medical Exam, Anyway?

A green card form requires the I-693 medical examination, which medical authorities call an immigration medical examination. The immigration exam must be conducted by civil surgeons designated by USCIS. The examination includes:

  • A physical exam
  • A discussion of your medical history.
  • Screening of blood and infectious disease tests.
  • Required vaccinations.

Form I-693 contains the recorded results that medical professionals attach to the green card application form.

Is It Safe to Take the Immigration Medical Exam While Pregnant?

The test is usually safe for pregnant women. However, some precautions and modifications are taken to make it safe for the mother and the unborn baby. Informing the clinic and the civil surgeon about your pregnancy before your visit is essential to make necessary modifications.

4 Key Considerations For the Expectant Woman

1. Immunizations

Some vaccinations required for the green card medical exam are not advised during pregnancy. They are:

  • MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
  • Varicella (Chickenpox)
  • HPV vaccine
  • Live vaccines in general

If you are pregnant and have not yet had these vaccinations, the civil surgeon will usually defer them. They will mark this deferral on your Form I-693, and USCIS will not regard your application as incomplete because of it. But after you have given birth, you might need to receive the deferred vaccinations.

Safe vaccines during pregnancy are:

  • Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
  • Influenza (flu vaccine) (during flu season)
  • Hepatitis B, by risk factors

Consult with your civil surgeon about vaccine options, which will be advised according to CDC and USCIS recommendations.

2. X-ray Requirement and Tuberculosis Testing

TB testing is a routine component of the immigration medical exam, typically conducted by a chest X-ray. There is a radiation exposure risk in pregnancy.

Here are your options:

  • IGRA blood test, or Interferon-Gamma Release Assays: It is safe in pregnancy and can be used as a substitute for screening for tuberculosis in the first instance.
  • Deferred Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray may be needed if the IGRA test is positive. If you happen to be pregnant, the civil surgeon could delay the X-ray until you give birth, especially if you are in your first trimester.

Lead aprons and shielding are utilized correctly if a chest X-ray is necessary during pregnancy to shield the fetus. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages with your doctor always.

3. Blood Tests

Routine blood work, including syphilis testing and other transmissible illnesses, is required. It is safe to do during pregnancy and will not hurt the baby.

4. Medications and Medical Conditions

Inform the civil surgeon of any medications you are currently on, any pregnancy issues, like gestational diabetes or high blood pressure. These are not disqualifying, but they are required for accurate medical reporting.

Guidelines for Pregnant Women Preparing for the Test

  • Take your prenatal records to your visit.
  • Inform the staff at the medical facility that you are pregnant when booking.
  • Discuss vaccination history and request deferrals if needed
  • Request alternative TB testing if you are worried about X-rays
  • Stay hydrated and eat before the exam, as some tests require blood samples
  • Request same-week appointments to avoid delays in your application

At Green Card Medical NY, we provide you with complete assistance and support throughout the entire green card medical exam process in NYC so that your process is smooth and secure.

Costs and What to Expect

We realize that managing healthcare costs during pregnancy might be difficult. That is why we provide transparent pricing for immigration physicals:

  • Adult test (no insurance): $380
  • Child under 15: $330
  • Routine vaccines such as Hepatitis B: $115
  • Flu shot (seasonal): $40
  • Tetanus/Diphtheria: $120
  • MMR: $115(usually postponed during pregnancy).

Please allow our professional staff to assist you if you are unsure what vaccinations you need or if they can be postponed because of pregnancy. We follow all CDC and USCIS regulations to ensure fully compliant care of your health.

Final Thoughts

Pregnancy does not necessarily need to be an obstacle to your immigration process. With appropriate communication and careful consideration, we ensure that your green card medical exam in NYC is conducted safely during pregnancy. More significantly, USCIS allows postponements of vaccines and adjustments to the exam where pregnancy is a consideration so that you can continue with your green card application form in confidence.

Our professional team is committed to making this process smooth for you, providing caring treatment and expert advice. We understand your unique circumstances and are prepared to assist your family in seeking permanent residence.

Need to Book Your Exam?

Call us at (347) 470-2790 to schedule a Pregnant women immigration medical appointment today. Our qualified staff will take you through each step of completing the Green Card Application form and address any queries!