New Medical Exam Requirements for Gonorrhea Screening

The Department of State, on August 19, 2016, updated its medical exam requirements per a decision by the Center for Disease Control (CDC).  The CDC, looking at Gonorrhea testing requirements, found that only testing those who are exhibiting systems of the disease was insufficient to protect the American public.  As the vast majority of those with Gonorrhea are asymptomatic (not showing systems of the diseases), only testing those showing systems means that a vast number of people with untreated Gonorrhea are being admitted to the US.  Therefore, they revised the testing requirements to ALWAYS require a Gonorrhea exam.  This change was made August 1, 2016.

Because of this change by the CDC, the Department of State is now requiring all immigrants to have a Gonorrhea test prior to receiving their immigrant visa.  They have also revised the medical exam form to include this information.  As there are many tests for Gonorrhea, the CDC and the DOS instruct physicians to use the least restrictive test needed in any given case.  While USCIS has not yet amended the form, since the current form requires civil surgeons to follow all CDC directives, this is a requirement for adjustment of status applicants as well.  People should be aware that, if they submitted an exam prior to this date and a Gonorrhea test was not performed USCIS could issue an RFE asking for an amended medical showing that the test has been performed.

If you have any questions leave a comment below or send me an email.  Please remember, as always, this blog does not offer legal advice. If you need legal advice, consult with a lawyer instead of a blog. Thank you.