If you’re applying for a green card or adjusting your immigration status in the U.S., one of the key steps in the process is completing the Immigration Medical Examination, also known as Form I-693. This is a required part of your application, and it’s done to make sure you don’t have any health conditions that could affect public safety or cause issues with your immigration status.
While only a USCIS-designated civil surgeon can officially perform the immigration exam and complete Form I-693, your primary care doctor can still play a major role in helping you prepare for it—and even save you time and money.
What Does the Immigration Exam Include?
The I-693 Immigration medical exam includes a physical check-up, a review of your vaccination records, a tuberculosis (TB) test, and screening for other communicable diseases. The civil surgeon will also ask about any chronic medical conditions or past illnesses, and you’ll need to show documentation for any required vaccines, like:
- MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Hepatitis B
- Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
- Influenza (if it’s flu season)
- COVID-19
How Your Primary Care Doctor Can Help
Your primary care doctor in Hollywood, may not be able to complete the I-693 form—but they can make everything leading up to it much easier.
1. Updating your medical history
If you have chronic conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, or anxiety, your PCP can make sure these are well-documented and well-managed before you visit the civil surgeon.
2. Providing your vaccination records
Most people don’t have all of their vaccine documentation in one place, especially if they were vaccinated outside the U.S. Your PCP can help you pull records from past clinics or re-administer any required vaccines. This is usually more affordable than getting them from the civil surgeon, who may charge a premium.
3. Completing required labs or follow-ups
If you test positive for TB or have a medical condition that needs follow-up (like a history of hepatitis), your PCP may be asked to assist with follow-up treatment or labs. That way, the civil surgeon has everything they need to sign off on your paperwork.
4. Helping with insurance and cost-saving options
Civil surgeons don’t typically bill insurance for the I-693 exam, but your PCP usually can for labs, vaccines, or ongoing care. That can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
5. Offering continuity of care
Once your immigration exam is complete, it’s helpful to have a PCP already familiar with your health history for long-term care. Whether you need help with medications, referrals, or routine checkups, they’ll be there for the next chapter of your life in the U.S.
What Happens After the Exam?
Once the civil surgeon finishes your immigration exam, they’ll give you a sealed envelope with your completed Form I-693. You’ll need to submit this to USCIS either with your green card application or when requested.
You can’t open or alter the sealed envelope—USCIS requires it to be submitted exactly as received. However, the civil surgeon may also give you a copy for your own records. Final Thoughts
Even though your primary care doctor can’t complete the I-693 form themselves (unless they’re also a designated civil surgeon), they can be a huge support throughout the process. From updating your vaccine records to helping manage chronic conditions and reducing costs, having a trusted PCP by your side makes the entire immigration medical exam process smoother and less stressful.
Whether you’re new to the U.S. or have been living here for years, building a relationship with a local primary care provider is one of the best things you can do for your long-term health—and your peace of mind.
