What is involved in the medical exam for completion of the I-693 USCIS form?
You will have a basic physical exam performed, which focuses on infection. People 15 years of age and older will have blood taken for a syphilis test. Everyone 2 years of age and older, who has not had a TB test in the past 90 days, will have a TB test placed on their forearm. Vaccination requirements vary depending on age. Dr. Hong will review and discuss the best options for your vaccinations, if needed

What do I need to bring with me to my exam?
   • A form of picture identification is required such as your passport or
     driver’s license.
   • Information you may have regarding vaccinations or TB.
     ◦ You can fax the information to or office in advance, if you prefer.
         Our fax number is 919-878-1541.
     ◦ We have the forms in the office, so it is not necessary to bring them.

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How long will the exam take?
You can anticipate about one hour. We pride ourselves on being efficient and organized, so your time may be less.

When will I get my papers back?
Typically, your paperwork with be ready in 2-3 business days after your exam. This can vary depending on the tests that were performed, and the test results.

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When I pick up the papers, will they be sealed?
Yes, the originals will be in a sealed and stamped envelope to be opened by USCIS. You will also be provided with a copy of the papers for your records.

How much will it cost?
The base cost for the medical exam, the review of records you may provide, and the completion of the papers for the USCIS I-693 form is $100. There will be additional costs if you require blood test(s) and/or a TB test. Vaccine requirements are based on age, and you will be given several options regarding the completion of the requirements. You may choose the option that best meets your needs.

We have not raised our immigration medical exam prices in the past 10 years. In fact, we have lowered the prices because we have been able to negotiate lower prices with the lab and vaccine vendors. We are pleased to be able to pass these savings on to our patients. We have found our prices to be the lowest in the area, but if you find a USCIS Designated Civil Surgeon who offers lower prices, we will gladly meet their documented price on a specific test.

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PWill I need a chest x-ray?
If your TB test is reactive/positive by USCIS standards, you will need to have a chest x-ray, which we will gladly provide for you in our Raleigh office.

Do you give discounts?
We understand the USCIS process can be lengthy and expensive, so we also routinely extend a discount to families with children and active military personnel.

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When can I get an appointment?
We make every effort to provide you with an appointment on the day, or day after, you contact us. We make every effort to schedule an appointment when it is most convenient for you.

What is a “supplemental”?
The supplement to the I-693 form is focused on the vaccinations and your age. This does not require the TB or syphilis test. Many times we can complete the paperwork for the supplemental on the same day as your appointment.

What are the common problems you see with the USCIS medical exam and paperwork?
Dr. Hong, a USCIS Designated Civil Surgeon, is diligent about staying current with USCIS changes and guidelines. We are careful to provide you with the most accurate and complete USCIS I-693 packet the first time you are in our office.

We do have patients come to our offices after they have experienced difficulties with other USCIS Designated Civil Surgeons. For example, they may have not received some required vaccinations, or they have been told that they have a received a complete set of vaccinations only to find that the vaccinations are not consistent with current USCIS guidelines. Patients have come to Dr. Hong asking him to sort out the papers they have received from other Civil Surgeons. It is not uncommon for us to be presented with “vaccination” pages that have been improperly completed or have had the boxes incorrectly checked. Finally, we have had patients present us with I-693 forms that have been rejected because the forms and/or tests performed by their previous practitioner were out-dated.

We are not claiming to be perfect. We are claiming to be very conscientious throughout all of the processes of the USCIS Medical Exam. We appreciate your trust in us, and we work hard to maintain your trust.

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