reading_1979

Hi all,

I will shortly be relocating to Bahrain from the UK due to an intra-company transfer.

As a part of the visa application process the HR in our Bahrain office requested a pre-employment medical report. I went to my GP surgery and a report was produced by the doctor within 30 mins with some basic examinations. No x Rays or Blood Tests. The HR is happy with the report and the visa application is currently being processed.

I have no medical history, as far as I am aware. The only thing concerns me is smoking, which I stopped in 2010. I haven't had any X ray tests for ages and I don't know whether it has left any scar in my lungs.

From a review on the internet, I gathered that the authorities in almost all GGC countries consider any scar in lungs as TB and they deport expats without any consideration.

Being a worrying type person, I am considering an X ray from my own pocket for the peace of my mind. Obviously, private medical is not cheap in the UK, and I have received a quote of £150.

Any thoughts on whether I am wasting my money or is it worthwhile going for an X ray report?

The problem is I wouldn't know if there is any problem in my lungs (if I don't do the test) until I arrive in Bahrain

Apologies If I am overcomplicating something which probably does not exist.

Eeyore

I think the idea that any irregularity at all on your chest X-ray will see you summarily deported is probably bollocks. Plenty of expats are heavy smokers (and were before they came here). More likely you'll be told to get it investigated further, and your residency application will be on hold until a firm diagnosis is reached.

Of course, if there *is* any damage to your lungs, better that you know about it sooner rather than later. I'd pay what it costs to get the X-ray done now.

DubInRiyadh

Had a 'medical in Riyadh a few months back for the Iqama process. Did the blood and urine samples and had a chest x-ray. Went into the doctors room for am examination, the doctor asked ' are you sick ?' I replied 'no' He walked out and that was the end of it.

Backinthesand

Don't bother wasting your money. Smoking is a national pastime.