Why You Need to Get Your Medical Records Translated
If you’re immigrating to the United States, getting your medical records translated might not seem like a necessity. After all, you’re familiar with your own medical history, so it may seem like medical record translation isn’t something you need. However, that isn’t the case.
Having translated medical records is critical for two reasons. If you want to learn more about why it’s crucial, here’s what you need to know.
Why You Need to Get Your Medical Records Translated
1. The Immigration Office May Need Translated Medical Records
One of the biggest reasons to have your medical records translated is that the immigration office may require that information in English. While everyone applying for a visa will need a medical examination, having your existing records translated is also a wise move. It ensures any supplementary information is readily available and readable by the immigration officer.
2. Providing Your New Doctor with Vital Information
When you immigrate to the United States, you’ll need to find a doctor in your new local area who can handle your medical care. While most physicians will have you fill out forms to get the basics of your medical history, that document may only give you enough space for a high-level overview of your health status.
By having your medical records translated, you can provide the full file to your new doctor. They’ll be able to learn the details of your medical history, including past diagnoses, treatments, surgical procedures, prescriptions, and more.
The Medical Records That Need Translating
If you have the means, translating the entirety of your medical records is the preferred approach. It ensures that every detail is captured, giving immigration all of the insights they need and provide your new doctor with a complete picture.
However, while having all of your medical records translated may be ideal, that might not be practical for everyone. If that is the case, then it’s best to focus on certain key aspects of your medical history, such as:
- Vaccination Records
- Allergies
- Medical Conditions
- Medications
- Treatment Plans
- Test Results
- Surgical Procedures
Other records may be less essential. For example, if you had past physicals that revealed no critical information and have had a comprehensive physical since, you may only need the records from the most recent physical translated. However, if anything new was found during a routine exam, it may be best to have those medical records translated as well.
Should You Translate Medical Records That Review a Disqualifying Medical Condition?
There are a few medical conditions that can make someone ineligible to immigrate to the United States. This can include:
- Missing Vaccinations
- Certain Physical or Mental Disorders That May Cause Harmful Behaviors
- History of Drug Addiction or Abuse
- Communicable Diseases of Public Health Significance
There are several communicable diseases that qualify as being of public health significance. According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), those include, but are not limited to:
- Gonorrhea
- Infectious Hansen’s Disease (Leprosy)
- Infectious Syphilis
- Active Tuberculosis
While some aspiring immigrants may think that not sharing medical information relating to a disqualifying condition is wise, it isn’t. Hiding any disqualifying information can lead to a visa denial under Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 212(a)(6)(C)(i) once the truth is discovered.
Since immigration requires a medical exam as part of the application process, the odds that they’ll learn about any disqualifying conditions is incredibly high. As a result, honesty is always the best policy.
Additionally, while you may initially receive a denial due to the condition, you may be eligible to apply for a waiver or may simply require proper treatment before the process can move forward. However, if you were dishonest when completing your application or providing information, you’re ability to enter the U.S. is permanently revoked.
Finding the Right Medical Records Translation Service
Finding the right medical records translation service is essential. When it comes to immigration documentation, accuracy is a must. Even minor errors can delay or derail the immigration process, so you want to work with a certified translation service that has a specialized team dedicated to medical records translations.
If you need the services of a medical records translator as part of the immigration process or in preparation for moving to the United States, Acutrans is here.
Acutrans provides reliable and accurate medical records translations quickly and efficiently. Our medical translator team is mainly comprised of individuals with doctorate degrees, ensuring they have the proper level of understanding of medical terminology and other key areas to guarantee accuracy.
Additionally, if you require language services during a medical appointment, Acutrans can provide you with the needed support. Acutrans offers medical interpretation services – both in-person and remotely – in 200 languages.
If you are looking for translation, interpretation, or other types of language services, the Acutrans team can provide a fast and professional solution. Contact us for a free quote today.