Save Time and Money on Your Immigration Physical?

Honestly, nobody wakes up excited about paperwork, lab tests, or navigating the USCIS immigration process. When you reach the part that involves your immigration physical, you might be asking yourself:“How can I save money?”“Can I use my regular doctor for part of it?”“What should I say—or not say—during the exam?”

If any of those questions have crossed your mind, you are in the right place. At Apex Urgent Care Clinic, we help patients across the Houston area complete immigration medical exams efficiently, affordably, and without confusion. Today, we share insider tips to help you use your primary care doctor to your advantage, avoid unnecessary costs, and feel confident going into your appointment with our Houston doctor.

Step One: Can You Use Your Primary Care Doctor? Absolutely

One of the best-kept secrets about immigration physicals is this: you can get your required lab tests and vaccines through your primary care provider (PCP), especially if you have insurance.

Tests like:

• TB (Quantiferon or skin test)

• Syphilis (RPR blood test)

• Gonorrhea (urine test)

• MMR titers (to check immunity)

…are usually covered or partially covered by the insurance plan if ordered by a regular doctor. That means you can save a lot compared to visiting a civil surgeon’s office.

When visiting a civil surgeon (like our Houston doctor), carry your medical records, and your appointment will be quick, smooth, and easy.

Step Two: Vaccines, Check the Records

Before rushing to get shots, check your vaccine records. Many patients discover they have received most of the required vaccines, especially if they attended school or traveled internationally.

Your PCP or pediatrician’s office may still have your immunization record on file. If they do not, you can get blood titers done to prove immunity instead of repeating vaccines.

The USCIS requires:

• MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)

• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)

• Varicella (chickenpox)

• Hepatitis B

• Influenza (during flu season)

Step Three: Honesty

During the exam, our Houston doctor will review your lab results, vaccination history, and medical background. A common concern we hear is:“Do I need to tell the civil surgeon everything about my medical history?”

The short answer: be truthful, but stick to what is asked.

For example, if you are asked about past surgeries or hospitalizations, answer clearly. If asked about mental health, provide accurate information. The goal is to present your case clearly without causing confusion or unnecessary delays.

This part is not a therapy session—it’s a standardized medical exam for immigration purposes. If the doctor needs more details, they will ask.

Step Four: Bring It Together

Here is the game plan:

• Call your PCP and ask for the immigration-related labs and vaccines.

• Gather your results and records in one place.

• Schedule an immigration physical at Apex Urgent Care Clinic.

• Come with your documents, a positive attitude, and any questions you have.

We will review everything with you, complete your I-693, and make sure it is sealed for submission.

Ready to Schedule Your Exam?

If you are in Houston and looking for a stress-free way to complete your immigration physical, Apex Urgent Care Clinic is here to help. Our Houston doctor understands the USCIS requirements and will guide you through the process.

Smart preparation saves you money, time, and stress!