London Medical - Knightsbridge Doctors

[SunDrop 59]

Can I ask you a question, regarding the HPV Vaccine they said you would need to have...? I am 26 years old and I will be 27 by the time we apply for AOS after we get married. So do you or anyone else know whether I will still have to have this? I thought the vaccination requirements are for AOS not for the application of the K1.

From Dec 16th (I think it was!) the HPV is being removed from the list of required immunisations, as the CDC (Center for Disease Control) has reduced it's 'threat' level, for want of a better explanation! lol..

This means that you won't need it for AOS.

Search the forum for the 'Gardasil no more' thread, where there is a link to the memo outlining the change.

[yorkshirerose22 4]

Can I ask you a question, regarding the HPV Vaccine they said you would need to have...? I am 26 years old and I will be 27 by the time we apply for AOS after we get married. So do you or anyone else know whether I will still have to have this? I thought the vaccination requirements are for AOS not for the application of the K1.

From Dec 16th (I think it was!) the HPV is being removed from the list of required immunisations, as the CDC (Center for Disease Control) has reduced it's 'threat' level, for want of a better explanation! lol..

This means that you won't need it for AOS.

Search the forum for the 'Gardasil no more' thread, where there is a link to the memo outlining the change.

i was told that i need the HPV . im 23. i jus said i would wait till i get to america.

[inhopeofglory 0]

That was very helpful and reassuring, thank you, inhopeofglory. My medical is on Thursday, and I'm starting to go a bit stir crazy with the nerves and anxiety over the whole thing. I hope I get the same doctor as you did, as it sounds like they were very good at putting you at ease.

Hey, no worries. This forum has been an incredible source of information, advice, and comfort to me, so it's nice to help someone else for a change.

Don't worry about your medical, it really is straightforward. A couple of tips:

a ) Be early - leave yourself plenty of time to get there, so that you're not stressing about the Tube/public transport/finding the place

b ) Have all your paperwork sorted - the questionnaire, your passport, passport photo, and vaccination records. They give everything but the photo and questionnaire back to you afterwards.

c ) Relax! They're there to tick the boxes on your forms for you - to rule out certain diseases in order to meet the US Government's requirements. The examination they give you is pretty cursory, all in all, nothing to fret about.

[FrostyMist 1]

The examination they give you is pretty cursory, all in all, nothing to fret about.

I'm starting to think that maybe some of all this is just done so they have an excuse to make you feel like they've earned the hefty fee.

Well, I mostly have everything that I need ready, though there are a few small chores to take care of tomorrow and Wednesday. My fiance is being wonderful about dealing with my stress levels at the moment-I spent earlier yelling and swearing and crying with stress (I think I'm just tired due to sleepless nights worrying about the medical, and everything else), so at least I have a place to vent. And felt a hell of a lot better for blowing off some steam.

Since we're driving to the medical, I made it in the afternoon. Not too late, because I think I'd have worked myself into a total state if I were waiting around all day waiting for the appointment, but not so early that I won't be able to get a decent night's sleep.

[inhopeofglory 0]

Personally I don't think they're quite that mercenary to do things purely "for show". I think the main reason it's so brief is that they're only really looking for specific signs of specific diseases/conditions - it's not supposed to be a thorough diagnostic "let's check everything to see if there's anything wrong" kinda medical.

[scotinmass 588]

The examination they give you is pretty cursory, all in all, nothing to fret about.

I'm starting to think that maybe some of all this is just done so they have an excuse to make you feel like they've earned the hefty fee.

Well, I mostly have everything that I need ready, though there are a few small chores to take care of tomorrow and Wednesday. My fiance is being wonderful about dealing with my stress levels at the moment-I spent earlier yelling and swearing and crying with stress (I think I'm just tired due to sleepless nights worrying about the medical, and everything else), so at least I have a place to vent. And felt a hell of a lot better for blowing off some steam.

Since we're driving to the medical, I made it in the afternoon. Not too late, because I think I'd have worked myself into a total state if I were waiting around all day waiting for the appointment, but not so early that I won't be able to get a decent night's sleep.

You really don't have anything to worry about. I know it's hard not to stress (we've all done it!) but it'll be fine. You'll be on here on Friday telling everyone else not to worry cos it was a piece of cake!

[scotinmass 588]

and they dont tell u about anything to do with your medical at the end. like if everythings fine or not so that kinda makes me wonder on that.

I think that they don't really say much about the outcome of the medical because they can't say how well you've done until the bloods and xray are back.

yeah i guess so, jus horried waiting and not knowing. they said they would send me a copy of my blood test results.

Is that a copy of the results of the extra blood test you had to get? Cos I don't remember them telling me I'd get a copy of mine.

[FrostyMist 1]

You'll be on here on Friday telling everyone else not to worry cos it was a piece of cake!

Heh, I was just thinking that yesterday. I'm looking forwards to being able to say "I've had my medical and it wasn't that bad!"

At least, I hope that's the case.

I'm sure it'll be fine. I suppose I'm just stressing because I do have a medical condition (and a rare one at that) so I'm worried whether there'll be an issue about it. You all know how it is, I'm sure: you think about what might possibly be a problem (no matter how unlikely) and then obsess about it. At least, that's what I do sometimes!

[SunDrop 59]

I'm sure it'll be fine. I suppose I'm just stressing because I do have a medical condition (and a rare one at that) so I'm worried whether there'll be an issue about it. You all know how it is, I'm sure: you think about what might possibly be a problem (no matter how unlikely) and then obsess about it. At least, that's what I do sometimes!

Depends on what your condition is, and I'm not prying! lol... Are you taking any information about your specific condition with you? Obviously they'll know what it is (or should!) but they might want reassurance from your GP/ Specialist about certain factors relating to it. If they're not satisfied at the medical, they'll let you know what they need to approve you. They're not out to make it hard for you to get your visa, so keep that in mind But I know that it's torturous thinking that anything will delay your visa any further.

I'm in a similar situation about not knowing what they'll want to see in order to approve my 10 y.o. daughter, who's currently being referred for help with extreme anxiety. Our whole process is fairly time critical, as I'd like for her to be able to start school on the first day of the academic year along with everyone else in her grade. I know that it's doable timewise if we file before the end of January but the medical is the only likely sticking point that I have any control over helping to make smooth and painless! I just need to know what they'll ask for so I can be prepared and trying to get that information is nigh on impossible.

My mum has Lupus and went through an L2 visa application with my dad. She was approved and even allowed to waive a couple of the vaccinations because they're contra-indicated for people with immune disorders.

If they do need anything more for you, from what I understand your GP can fax it to them, which certainly speeds up the process.

((hugs)) you'll be fine.

[FrostyMist 1]

Depends on what your condition is, and I'm not prying! lol... Are you taking any information about your specific condition with you? Obviously they'll know what it is (or should!) but they might want reassurance from your GP/ Specialist about certain factors relating to it. If they're not satisfied at the medical, they'll let you know what they need to approve you. They're not out to make it hard for you to get your visa, so keep that in mind yes.gif But I know that it's torturous thinking that anything will delay your visa any further.

I have a rare condition, so it's unlikely they'll have heard of it. They should be familiar with aspects of it, and I'm hoping that my doctors letter (plus letter from my specialist) should both work to satisfy whatever they're looking for. Both letters have listed my medication, plus confirm that my condition is stable and expected to remain that way. I don't have anything contagious, nor am I a risk to myself or others, so I know that I'm at least clear of some of the major medical stumbling blocks. But, still...

It's a good thought to keep in mind that they're not out to stop me getting a visa: just doing their job to make sure I meet all the requirements, or advise me what to do if not. Afterall, it's the US government that set down the rules, not the doctors.

But it is somewhat torturous thinking that anything might delay the process, and I think part of me is worried that if they do have an issue with my medical condition, then I'm obviously going to be so much more stressed and anxious about the interview itself.

I've heard of a few cases now where people with disabilities and/or medical conditions (I have both) have gotten a visa with no problems, so I should be okay.

I'm in a similar situation about not knowing what they'll want to see in order to approve my 10 y.o. daughter, who's currently being referred for help with extreme anxiety. Our whole process is fairly time critical, as I'd like for her to be able to start school on the first day of the academic year along with everyone else in her grade. I know that it's doable timewise if we file before the end of January but the medical is the only likely sticking point that I have any control over helping to make smooth and painless! I just need to know what they'll ask for so I can be prepared and trying to get that information is nigh on impossible.

We tried asking the Immigration services about what our chances were of me being approved a visa were, and they were not very helpful. "Maybe, maybe not..." was their answer. I appreciate that it's difficult to give a specific answer, especially not having all that many details about my case at the time, but still...

I can certainly appreciate your situation and worry. It's just a thought, but could you try phoning Knightsbridge themselves and asking them for advice? They might be able to put your mind at ease and they did seem fairly helpful when I spoke to them, so maybe they would be able to suggest what you can bring with you that might help with the medical (if there is a problem). They might not be willing to talk to you aobut it though until you have a case number. I've heard stories of them being very rude to people who've tried phoning before then.

Edited November 24, 2009 by FrostyMist

[SunDrop 59]

I've heard of a few cases now where people with disabilities and/or medical conditions (I have both) have gotten a visa with no problems, so I should be okay.

Yes you should

It's just a thought, but could you try phoning Knightsbridge themselves and asking them for advice? They might be able to put your mind at ease and they did seem fairly helpful when I spoke to them, so maybe they would be able to suggest what you can bring with you that might help with the medical (if there is a problem). They might not be willing to talk to you aobut it though until you have a case number. I've heard stories of them being very rude to people who've tried phoning before then.

I'd thought of that and really, I'm stressing way too far in advance. It's quite possible that she'll get some help and it will all be wrapped up and moved on from by the time we get to the medical stage. All I'd need is a letter stating this from our GP. Equally, it's possible that she is diagnosed with more than just an 'anxiety disorder' and they won't be able to say that she won't need psychiatric care in the future. It's one thing when you're an adult suffering from mental ill health, but how do they regard kids in this situation? The void of information is frustrating, but I'm trying to take the view that I can't be the only one to ever be in this situation and immigrating.

I'm also hopeful that we can get our medicals done at the other place, since her Dad is immigrating to Canada and she'll need a medical for that (even though she's not on his application, she could be entitled to immigrate to Canada with a parent as a Canadian LPR). The other place is the also the Canadian physician, so it would be great if she can either have the one medical with 2 referrals or 2 medicals, one straight after the other! Sounds crazy, but worth trying! Once we've submitted our I129F, I'll start making inquiries.

On a totally different note, the airline we're flying out at Christmas with just tried to tell me that USCIS at POE don't need to see your return itinerary. Hahahahahaha. I said, "they do if they ask, and they can ask!"

Edited November 24, 2009 by SunDrop

[FrostyMist 1]

I'd thought of that and really, I'm stressing way too far in advance. It's quite possible that she'll get some help and it will all be wrapped up and moved on from by the time we get to the medical stage. All I'd need is a letter stating this from our GP. Equally, it's possible that she is diagnosed with more than just an 'anxiety disorder' and they won't be able to say that she won't need psychiatric care in the future. It's one thing when you're an adult suffering from mental ill health, but how do they regard kids in this situation? The void of information is frustrating, but I'm trying to take the view that I can't be the only one to ever be in this situation and immigrating.

I was running round trying to get everything lined up ready for my medical back in Feb (a month BEFORE we submitted our I129F!) I had my specialist write me a letter then, but because we're now in November (over six months later) I wanted to get a followup letter from my GP as well, just to be sure that everything was covered.

So, I can certainly understand that even though it's a while off, you're going to be thinking about and planning for these things.

I've had some experience with anxiety disorders (my brother was treat for one a few years back). Of course, it will depend on the saverity of her symptoms, and the method of treatment they think is best, but it could well be that you'll be done with her treatment by the time you go for the medical. And, perhaps if not, would it be possible to consider having whoever is treating her include in whatever letter they write that her symptoms are caused by the circumstances of her current situation (living in limbo)?

Bah. I just discovered this morning that I might have gotten wrong which place my medical is at. Now I need to phone them and check!! Grrr.

[beatlesrebel 0]

My fiance finally has his medical tomorrow! Sorry for the random post, but I had to share with people who understand! He's nervous, but he has all the information he needs, so I think it'll go really well. He's taking the train from Liverpool and his appointment is at 2:30pm. Poor guy doesn't get to leave until 8pm, so he'll be in London for awhile before he gets to go back home. Long day for him, but we're excited that this step is almost over with! Still waiting on our interview date, it's been 12 working days (minus the American Thanksgiving holiday) since he sent the paperwork in to the embassy, so if we don't hear by the end of the week we're going to call. Will be sure to post about his experience tomorrow night...want to thank everyone who has, it's really helped us prepare for his appointment.

~Anna

[SunDrop 59]

I've had some experience with anxiety disorders (my brother was treat for one a few years back). Of course, it will depend on the saverity of her symptoms, and the method of treatment they think is best, but it could well be that you'll be done with her treatment by the time you go for the medical. And, perhaps if not, would it be possible to consider having whoever is treating her include in whatever letter they write that her symptoms are caused by the circumstances of her current situation (living in limbo)?

Yeah, there's absolutely no doubt in my mind that what we're experiencing is a manifestation of her feeling out of control/ in limbo. She's always been an anxious type, but seems that whenever there is a major change or cause of feeling out of control, she becomes far less able to cope. She was the same when she started school and it settled down when she got used to it all about 2-3 months later. Just now she's 10, it's more 'adult' and harder to manage in a literal sense and there's no end in sight from an adjustment and reassurance p.o.v.

She's just got an appointment for the end of January to see a consultant paediatric psychiatrist, and I'm getting a phone consult from her tomorrow to discuss management techniques, especially considering the 5 week trip to the US that's coming up next week. I'm worried about her having an 'episode' at 35,000 feet. It's hard enough dealing with what looks like just spoiled brat with no volume button when we're in the company of my parents, never mind 240 odd strangers in a fast-traveling airbourne tin can! lol... *does the emergency prescription of tranquilizer dance*

[SunDrop 59]

My fiance finally has his medical tomorrow! Sorry for the random post, but I had to share with people who understand! He's nervous, but he has all the information he needs, so I think it'll go really well. He's taking the train from Liverpool and his appointment is at 2:30pm. Poor guy doesn't get to leave until 8pm, so he'll be in London for awhile before he gets to go back home. Long day for him, but we're excited that this step is almost over with! Still waiting on our interview date, it's been 12 working days (minus the American Thanksgiving holiday) since he sent the paperwork in to the embassy, so if we don't hear by the end of the week we're going to call. Will be sure to post about his experience tomorrow night...want to thank everyone who has, it's really helped us prepare for his appointment.

~Anna

I'm sure he'll be absolutely fine, as long as he doesn't have any chronic conditions that might cause them concern, or any matters still under investigation/ pending diagnosis.

And central London is quite good fun late afternoon/ early evening this time of year. All the Christmas lights are on and it's worth a visit to Harrod's just to see their window displays and balk at the wierdos lining up for hours to take their little jems to see Santa there... Just be sure to wear comfy walking shoes