Last modified 02/25/2026

🌟Certificate of Good Health: Examples & Complete Guide to Get It Fast📝

If you are looking for examples of a certificate of good health, you are not alone. Do you need a certificate of good health in the United States? Discover what it is, what it is for, where to get it, how much it costs, and professional examples.

🔍Why is the certificate of good health so important?

In the dynamic environment of American society, the certificate of good health has become a document almost as essential as an official ID.

Whether it’s to start a new job, enroll in a high-performance gym, participate in a summer camp, or even for immigration and adoption procedures, this medical certificate certifies that a person is in optimal physical and mental condition to carry out a specific activity.

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In recent years, with a renewed focus on preventive health and civic responsibility, American institutions demand this document more rigorously. It is not just a piece of paper, but a guarantee of community well-being.

Throughout this guide, we will break down every aspect so that, as an American citizen, you can obtain your certificate quickly, affordably, and without setbacks, understanding its true value in the current legal and social context.

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• 📌 How to get a certificate of good health fast in the USA
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• 📌 Model certificate of good health for immigration

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1️⃣ 📜 What exactly is a certificate of good health? Definition and Legal Validity in the USA

To understand the relevance of this document, we must first define it precisely. In the medical and legal context of the United States, a certificate of good health (also known as a medical health certificate or “clean bill of health”) is a report signed by a licensed health professional (Medical Doctor, Doctor of Osteopathy, or Nurse Practitioner in some states) that certifies the current health status of an individual.

It should not be confused with a complete medical history. It is a health snapshot at a given moment. The doctor, after a basic review that includes measuring vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature) and a general physical examination, declares that the patient shows no signs of contagious diseases that imply a risk to the community and that they are physically fit to carry out daily activities or a specific function.

Its legal validity lies in the signature and license number of the professional who issues it. Generally, it has a short expiration date, between 30 and 90 days, as it only reflects the state of health at the time of the review. Institutions accept it as proof that the individual meets the minimum required health standards.

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2️⃣ ❓ What is this certificate used for in American society?

The versatility of the certificate of good health is enormous. Its use is deeply rooted in the social and labor fabric of the United States. Knowing all its uses will help you identify when it is an indispensable requirement.

• 💼 Employment:
  • Many companies, especially in sectors such as restaurants, education, or elderly care, require it to verify that the new employee does not suffer from communicable diseases.
  • It is common for positions that require considerable physical effort, ensuring that the candidate can perform the tasks without risk to their health.
• 🏫 Educational and Recreational Environments:
  • Schools and Universities: Mandatory for practicing school sports or for exchange students.
  • Summer Camps: Standard requirement to ensure the safety of all campers.
  • Gyms and Sports Clubs: Especially those with intensive training programs or for new memberships.
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Civil and Legal Procedures:
  • Adoption Processes: Essential to demonstrate the ability of prospective parents to care for a minor.
  • Immigration Procedures: Although there are specific forms (such as I-693), a simple letter is often requested as a preliminary step or for certain types of visas.
  • Travel: Some remote destinations or long-duration cruises may require it.
• ⚖️ Judicial Proceedings: In custody cases or disability lawsuits, it may be required by a judge.

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3️⃣ 🧑‍⚕️ How do you get a certificate of good health? Step-by-Step Process

Obtaining your certificate of good health in the United States is a simple and straightforward process if you follow these steps. The key is to go prepared and know exactly what you need.

1. Step 1: Identify the Institution Requesting It. Before doing anything, ask if they provide a specific form that the doctor must fill out. Some companies or schools have their own format.
2. Step 2: Find a Health Professional. You can go to your Primary Care Physician (PCP), who already knows your history. If you don’t have one, urgent care clinics or pharmacies with in-house clinics (like CVS MinuteClinic or Walgreens Healthcare Clinic) are fast and accessible options.
3. Step 3: Schedule an Appointment. When doing so, specify that the reason for the visit is to obtain a certificate of good health. This ensures they give you adequate time and the professional knows what type of exam to perform.
4. Step 4: Go to the Appointment with your ID. Bring a valid photo ID (Driver’s License, Passport, or State ID) and any form provided by the requesting entity.
5. Step 5: The Physical Exam. The doctor will perform a basic review:
   • Measurement of weight, height, and vital signs.
   • Auscultation of heart and lungs.
   • General check of ears, nose, and throat.
   • Questions about your medical history and vaccines.
6. Step 6: Receive your Document. If everything is in order, the doctor will write and sign the certificate of good health on the spot or tell you when to pick it up. Check that all your details are correct.

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4️⃣ 💰 How much does a certificate of good health cost at similar clinics and are there free options?

The cost of a certificate of good health in the United States varies and depends on several factors. Understanding the pricing structure will help you budget and look for the most economical option, such as the well-known “similar” or low-cost clinics.

• With Medical Insurance: If you visit your primary care doctor, the visit is usually covered by your insurance. You may only pay a co-pay ranging from $20 to $50. However, if the insurance does not consider this procedure a “necessary” medical visit, it might not cover it, and you would have to pay the full consultation fee.
• Without Medical Insurance (“Similar” or Low-Cost Options):
  • Pharmacy Clinics (MinuteClinic, Healthcare Clinic): They are an excellent option. The cost of a visit for a health certificate is usually fixed and quite affordable, between $59 and $99.
  • Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs): They offer services on a sliding scale based on your income. They can be a free or very low-cost option for people with limited resources.
  • Local Clinics or County Health Departments: They often offer these services at reduced prices, especially for vaccines or school checkups.

Cost Summary:

• 💰 Co-pay with Insurance: $20 – $50
• 🏥 Pharmacy Clinic (without insurance): $59 – $99
• 🏛️ Community Health Center: From $0 (depending on income) to $50.
• 🩺 Private Doctor (without insurance): $100 – $200+

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5️⃣ 🏥 Where do I get my health certificate? The top 5 places in the USA

Knowing where to get my health certificate is the key question. Here is a ranking of the most common and recommended places in the United States to obtain it, considering speed, cost, and accessibility.

• 1. 🏪 Clinics at National Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens):
  • Advantages: Extended hours, weekends, no appointment needed in many cases, fixed and transparent prices. They are the fastest option for most Americans.
• 2. 🏥 Your Primary Care Physician (PCP):
  • Advantages: Knows your complete medical history, allowing for a more comprehensive evaluation. The best option if you have a trusting relationship with your doctor and your insurance covers it.
• 3. 🏛️ Community Health Centers:
  • Advantages: Ideal if you don’t have insurance or have limited income. They offer sliding scale care and are present in almost all communities.
• 4. 🚑 Urgent Care Clinics:
  • Advantages: Perfect if you need the certificate the same day and your doctor has no appointments. They are more expensive than a pharmacy but faster than a specialist appointment.
• 5. 🏫 Local or School Health Departments:
  • Advantages: Often offer free or low-cost sessions for specific school requirements (like the start of the school year or summer camps). Check their calendar.

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6️⃣ 📝 05 Examples of Certificate of Good Health Models (Professional and Complete)

Below, I present 05 examples of models adapted to different contexts. These formats will give you a clear idea of what to expect or request.

Model 1: General Employment Use (Standard Format)

[Name of Medical Office or Hospital]
[Full Address]
[Phone Number]

Date: [MM/DD/YYYY]

To whom it may concern:

By means of this letter, I certify that I have evaluated [Patient’s Full Name] with date of birth [MM/DD/YYYY] at my facility. After performing a complete physical examination and reviewing their medical history, I find no evidence of a communicable disease or physical condition that would prevent them from performing their job duties safely and efficiently.

The patient is in apparent good health.

This certificate is issued for any purposes convenient to the interested party.

Sincerely,

[Doctor’s Signature]
[Doctor’s Name]
[Medical License Number]

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Model 2: School Sports Participation

[Name of Clinic]
[Address]

Date: [MM/DD/YYYY]

To the Athletics Department of [Name of School]:

I have examined the student [Student’s Name] today. The student presents no medical contraindications for participating in school sports activities, including physical education and competitive sports such as [Name of Sport, optional].

Maintaining adequate hydration and reporting any unusual symptoms is recommended.

Doctor’s Signature:
[Name and License]

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Model 3: Summer Camp

[Name of Pediatrician or Medical Center]

To the directors of Camp [Name of Camp]:

I certify that [Child’s Name] has received a recent health examination and is physically and mentally fit to participate in all camp activities. Their vaccinations are up to date according to the schedule recommended for their age.

The child has no known allergies / is allergic to [specify, if applicable].

Dr. [Pediatrician’s Name]
[Date]

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Model 4: Immigration Procedure (Simple Attached Letter)

[Medical Office Letterhead]

Health Statement for [Patient’s Name]

I, [Doctor’s Name], licensed to practice medicine in the state of [State Name], certify that I have examined [Patient’s Name] and, based on that examination and the information provided, I have found no evidence of any health condition that would make them a public charge or that would pose a danger to the community in the context of their immigration application. This letter does not replace the official immigration medical examination (Form I-693).

[Doctor’s Signature and Stamp]

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Model 5: Post-Illness Certificate (Return to Work)

[Name of Hospital/Clinic]

Re: [Employee Name] – Return to work

The above-mentioned patient was under my care for [Brief description of the illness, e.g., a respiratory infection]. They have completed their treatment and presented for a follow-up consultation today. Clinically, they are recovered and asymptomatic. Therefore, I declare that they are fit to return to their job without restrictions starting from [Return date].

Dr. [Doctor’s Name]
[Date]

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7️⃣ 🧭 Useful Guide: Practical Tips to Get Your Certificate Without Problems

To ensure a hassle-free experience, follow this useful guide based on the experience of hundreds of American patients.

• 📞 Call Before You Go: Confirm the cost and if they accept your insurance. Ask if the doctor will require any additional tests.
• 📋 Bring Your Vaccination Record: Especially if the certificate is for a school. Having it on hand speeds up the process.
• 🤔 Be Honest with the Doctor: Report any pre-existing conditions, medications you take, or recent symptoms. Transparency is vital for an accurate certificate.
• 👀 Review the Document Before Leaving: Make sure your name is spelled correctly, the date is right, and it has the doctor’s signature and stamp. A typo can invalidate it.
• 📸 Make a Copy (Digital or Physical): Never hand over the only original. Always keep a copy for your personal records. Scan it or take a clear photo.

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❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Certificate of Good Health

We answer the most common doubts that American citizens have about this procedure.

1. Can I get a certificate of good health if I have a cold?
   • It depends. If you have a fever or obvious contagious symptoms, the doctor will likely not sign it until you recover, so as not to certify that you are “healthy” when you clearly are not.
2. Do I need to fast for the exam?
   • Generally no, unless the doctor is going to perform a specific blood glucose test, which is not usual for this simple certificate.
3. What if I have a chronic illness like diabetes?
   • You can get a certificate of good health. The doctor will certify that your condition is controlled and that, under treatment, you are fit to perform your normal activities.
4. Is my certificate of good health from a “similar” clinic (pharmacy) valid for my job?
   • Yes, as long as it is issued by a licensed health professional (nurse practitioner or doctor). Pharmacy clinics are fully authorized to issue them.
5. How long does the process take?
   • The consultation itself lasts between 15 and 30 minutes. In most cases, you get the letter on the spot.
6. Can I use the same letter for school and the gym?
   • You can try, but it’s safest to request a certified copy for each procedure, as institutions usually keep the original.
7. What if I lose the letter?
   • You must request a copy from the office that issued it. They may charge a small fee for reprinting.
8. Can the doctor refuse to give me the letter?
   • Yes, if during the exam they find evidence of an untreated contagious disease or a condition that, in their judgment, prevents you from performing the activity for which you are requesting the certificate.
9. Is a letter issued in another state valid?
   • Generally yes, as it is governed by the professional’s federal license. However, for very specific state procedures, check first.
10. Is an annual physical exam the same as a certificate of good health?
    • Not exactly. The annual physical exam is much more comprehensive. The letter is a byproduct of a more basic exam or can be part of the annual one if you request it.

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🎯 Conclusion: Your Health, Your Best Letter of Introduction

Ultimately, the certificate of good health is much more than a simple bureaucratic requirement in American society. It is a reflection of individual and community responsibility, a tool that facilitates integration into educational, work, and social environments. As we have seen, obtaining it is an accessible, affordable, and fast process if you know where to go and how to prepare.

From pharmacy clinics to your trusted doctor, the options are varied to suit your needs and budget.

Remember that this document is a snapshot of your well-being at a given time, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the best way to ensure that, when you need that letter, it reflects the best of you. Don’t leave it until the last minute; with this guide, you are ready to manage it efficiently and without stress.

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🩺 What do they ask in an exam for a health certificate?: Complete Guide

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📋 Prepare for your medical appointment

Going to an appointment to get your certificate of good health can generate some uncertainty, especially if it’s the first time you’ve requested this document. The good news is that it is a standardized, fast process designed to assess your general state of health without unnecessary complications.

In American society, where this certificate is a common requirement for jobs, schools, and recreational activities, knowing what they ask in an exam for a health certificate will allow you to arrive prepared, answer confidently, and expedite the process. The doctor or health professional is not trying to “test” you, but rather to gather enough information to issue a truthful document certifying that you are fit for your daily activities or for the specific purpose you are requesting.

Below, we break down everything you need to know about the typical questions, the evaluation process, and how to prepare so that your visit is a success from the first minute.

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1️⃣ 📝 What do they ask in an exam for a health certificate? Breakdown by category

When you go to a clinic, a pharmacy like CVS or Walgreens, or your primary care doctor’s office, the professional will follow a standard protocol. The questions are divided into several categories to get a complete picture of your well-being.

🗣️ Questions about your personal medical history

The doctor will start by asking about your health history. Be honest and transparent, as this information is crucial for an accurate evaluation.

• Do you have any currently diagnosed medical conditions? (e.g., diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, epilepsy)
• Are you currently taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications?
• Have you been hospitalized in the last year? For what reason?
• Have you had any surgery? If so, when and why?
• Do you have any known allergies? (Medications, foods, insect stings, environmental)
• Have you experienced recent symptoms such as fever, persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, excessive fatigue, or unusual pains?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Questions about family history

Although the certificate of good health focuses on your current state, family history helps the doctor assess potential risks.

• Do any of your parents or siblings have hereditary diseases? (Heart problems, cancer, diabetes, autoimmune disorders)
• Is there a history of mental illness in your immediate family?

🏃 Questions about habits and lifestyle

Your daily life directly influences your health. These questions are common and expected.

• Do you smoke or use vaping products? How often?
• Do you consume alcohol? How often and how much?
• Do you use any recreational drugs? (Be honest, medical confidentiality is protected by HIPAA)
• Do you exercise regularly? What type and how often?
• How would you describe your diet? Do you eat fruits, vegetables, processed foods?
• Do you sleep well? How many hours on average per night?

💼 Specific questions depending on the purpose of the letter

Depending on why you need the certificate, the doctor will ask more targeted questions.

• If it’s for employment: Does your job involve physical exertion, handling heavy machinery, or food handling?
• If it’s for school or sports: Do you practice any specific sport? Have you suffered sports injuries in the past?
• If it’s for travel: Does your destination require additional vaccines? Have you recently traveled abroad?
• If it’s for adoption or immigration procedures: Do you have any condition that requires special long-term care?

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2️⃣ 🩻 Physical exam: What does the doctor check during the consultation?

In addition to the questions, the doctor will perform a basic but comprehensive physical exam. Here’s what you can expect:

📏 Standard measurements

• Weight and height: To calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI).
• Blood pressure: Essential for detecting hypertension.
• Heart and respiratory rate: To assess your cardiovascular system.
• Body temperature: To rule out fever or active infection.

👂 General physical examination

• Auscultation: The doctor will listen to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope to detect murmurs, arrhythmias, or abnormal breathing sounds.
• Palpation: They will gently examine your abdomen for tenderness or masses.
• Head and neck exam: They will examine eyes, ears, nose, and throat. They may check your lymph nodes and thyroid gland.
• Reflexes and coordination: They might assess your basic reflexes and balance.
• Skin: They will inspect for rashes, suspicious moles, or signs of infection.

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3️⃣ 💉 Do I need lab tests or vaccines?

For a standard certificate of good health, blood or urine tests are generally not required. However, there are exceptions:

🩸 When additional tests may be requested

• If the doctor detects something unusual during the physical exam.
• If the certificate is for food handling (stool tests may be required).
• If the employer or institution specifically requests it on their form.
• For certain immigration procedures (where form I-693 with specific tests is required).

💉 Vaccination verification

The doctor will ask and likely request to see your vaccination record. It is common for the certificate of good health to include a statement about your vaccination status, especially for:

• Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
• Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (Tdap)
• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Hepatitis B
• Influenza (flu) vaccine, especially during flu season
• COVID-19 (increasingly requested in work and educational settings)

If you are missing vaccines, the doctor may recommend getting them and issue the letter once you are up to date.

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4️⃣ 🤔 Frequently asked questions about what they ask during the exam

Can they deny me the letter if I answer something negative?

Not necessarily. Having a controlled chronic condition (like diabetes or high blood pressure) does not prevent you from obtaining a certificate of good health. The doctor will certify that your condition is stable and under control. They could only deny it if they detect an active contagious disease or a condition that makes you unable to perform the specific activity you are requesting.

Should I mention mental health issues?

If you are being treated for anxiety, depression, or another mental health condition and it is controlled, it should not affect the issuance of the letter. However, if the letter is for a high-risk job (pilot, police officer, etc.), the doctor will assess whether you are fit to perform those specific functions.

What if I don’t remember my vaccines?

The doctor can request your vaccination record from your state through the immunization information system (IIS) or ask you to contact your previous doctor. If there is no record, they may perform antibody tests or recommend revaccination.

How long does a typical consultation last?

Between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of your history and if you need to fill out additional forms.

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5️⃣ ✅ Practical tips for your health certificate exam

• Arrive on time: Bring your ID, health insurance (if you have it), the institution’s form (if applicable), and your vaccination record.
• Make a list of your medications: Include doses and frequency.
• Be honest: Confidential information is protected by HIPAA. Hiding information can lead to an inaccurate certificate.
• Wear comfortable clothes: To facilitate the physical exam.
• Ask if you have doubts: Don’t be afraid to ask the doctor about any aspect of the exam or the certificate.

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🏁 Conclusion

Knowing what they ask in an exam for a health certificate removes uncertainty and allows you to face the consultation with peace of mind. Remember that the doctor’s goal is to issue a truthful certificate that reflects your current state of health and guarantees that you are fit for your activities.

Honesty, preparation, and bringing the correct documentation are the keys to a fast and successful process. Now that you know the whole process, you’re ready for your appointment!

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✨ 10 Fun Facts about the Certificate of Good Health You Probably Didn’t Know

Beyond its practical function, this document has a fascinating history and characteristics.

1. 🧾 Its origin dates back to the health certificates required of sailors in the Middle Ages to prevent the spread of diseases like the plague in ports.
2. 🏛️ In ancient Rome, there was a precursor to this document called “tesserae sanitatis” that certified a traveler did not come from a region plagued by disease.
3. 🤝 In some US states, certificates of good health for food industry workers (food handlers) are mandatory and must be renewed annually.
4. 📈 The rise of pharmacy clinics (like CVS and Walgreens) has democratized access to these certificates, making the process faster and cheaper than a traditional doctor’s visit.
5. 🌐 With the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for medical certificates certifying “good health” skyrocketed, especially for travel and returning to workplaces.
6. 📝 Many Fortune 500 companies have clauses in their contracts that condition hiring on the successful presentation of a certificate of good health.
7. 🩺 A physical exam for a standard certificate of good health rarely lasts more than 15-20 minutes, unless additional lab tests are required.
8. 💡 In some Latin American countries, the certificate of good health is an indispensable requirement to apply for a driver’s license for the first time.
9. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Pediatric clinics in the USA often have their own version of this certificate, called the “School Physical Form,” which often includes a section for vaccination history.
10. ⚖️ Refusing to provide a certificate of good health to an employer, when it is a legitimate requirement for the position, can be grounds for not being hired or even for being fired in many states.

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📚 Verification Sources

To guarantee the accuracy and timeliness of the information presented in this article, I have relied on the following official and reliable sources:

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🏛️ US Government Health Institutions

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🏥 Professional Medical Associations

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💊 Pharmacy Chains and Retail Clinics

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🏛️ State Health Departments (Representative Examples)

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📊 Academic Studies and Publications

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⚖️ Legislation and Regulations

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📱 Telemedicine Applications and Platforms

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📋 Consumer and Public Health Organizations

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🗓️ Content Update

All information presented in this article has been cross-referenced with the mentioned official sources to ensure its accuracy and validity. Health policies, costs, and requirements may vary by state and medical provider. It is recommended to consult directly with the relevant institution before carrying out any procedure.

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✅ Note on Accuracy

This article has been prepared strictly following:

• Public domain information provided by US government agencies
• Data published by official medical associations
• Current policies of national health and pharmacy chains
• Updated health legislation of the United States
• Standard medical practices in American society

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