If you are going to work in a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman or Bahrain, you will need to undergo a GAMCA (WAFID) medical examination. It is a mandatory test for work visa and is conducted only in certified medical centres.
But many people have questions:
“Reasons Why You Should Not Apply for GAMCA Medical Test or ineligible for GAMCA medical?”
In this blog, we will discuss the main medical problems that may result in GAMCA medical being rejected or an Unfit result.
Who Can’t Apply for GAMCA Medical?
In principle, most people can apply for the GAMCA medical test. However, if they have certain health conditions, then the medical result will most likely show Unfit and the visa process may be refused.
So, the issue is not getting a visa, but rather, the GAMCA test.
Health Issues that May Lead to Unfit Results in GAMCA
Here are some of the common causes of disqualification.
1. HIV / AIDS
HIV is one of the absolute disqualification criteria for the medical fitness to work in the GCC countries.
If blood test shows HIV positive, then GAMCA will always be Unfit.
2. Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
Hepatitis is a liver disease. Hepatitis B and C are serious concerns for countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Applicants can be deemed unfit if they have:
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
These are tested via blood tests at the GAMCA medical.
3. Tuberculosis (TB)
Given the high incidence of TB in the Philippines, this is one of the major grounds for disqualification.
An applicant may be rejected if:
- Chest X-ray is positive for TB
- Lung infection is detected
- The applicant has untreated TB
Sometimes even old TB scars cause problems, depending on the transplant center or country.
4. Serious Lung Diseases
Besides TB, some serious lung diseases may also result in rejection, including:
- Chronic lung infection
- Severe asthma
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Respiratory issues that impact work
If the applicant’s lungs are not suitable for working conditions, the medical may be denied.
5.Kidney disease or chronic kidney disease
Kidney problems can be a significant cause of unfitness, particularly if severe.
Examples include:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
- Kidney failure
- Dialysis patient
- High creatinine levels
- Severe protein in urine
6. Severe Heart Problems
Cardiac (heart) issues can impact medical fitness for a GCC visa.
Applicants may be denied if they have:
- Heart failure
- Major heart blockage
- Severe heart disease
- Previous complicated heart surgery
- Abnormal ECG report (in some cases)
7. Cancer (Active Cases)
Candidates with active cancer or undergoing treatment may be deemed unhealthy.
This includes:
- Chemotherapy treatment
- Radiation therapy
- Serious cancer complications
Generally, GCC countries do not issue work visas to cancer patients.
- 8. Serious Mental Health Disorders. Certain mental disorders may result in rejection if they interfere with safety or job performance, including:
These include:
- Schizophrenia
- Severe bipolar disorder
- Serious depression with unstable condition
- Mental disability
While not all psychological disorders trigger rejection, severe psychological problems may cause problems.
9. Drugs and Drug Addiction
GCC countries have tight drug laws. Applicants may be refused if found to be involved with drugs.
Disqualification may be due to:
- Positive drug screening test
- History of drug addiction
- Severe alcohol addiction
10. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can also lead to unfit status.
Common examples include:
- Syphilis
- Severe STD infections
- These can be picked up in blood tests.
- Conditions that May Lead to Temporary Unfit
- Certain people are deemed unfit because of temporary conditions, including:
- Fever or infection during test
- Chest congestion
- High blood pressure due to stress
- High blood sugar due to bad eating habits before medical
- Temporary abnormal blood reports
- Treatment and wait may help.
Will my GAMCA be Rejected if I have Diabetes/High BP?
This is a common question.
Diabetes:
Diabetes isn’t necessarily a disqualifier. Most clear if blood sugar is within normal limits. However, diabetes with complications and uncontrolled blood sugar leads to unfitness.
High Blood Pressure:
Most BP does not lead to disqualification. But very high BP with heart risk can result in disqualification.
How to Pass GAMCA Medical
Here are a few tips to help you pass your GAMCA medical:
- Don’t drink and smoke before the test
- Drink enough water
- Sleep properly the night before
- Avoid oily and junk food
- Do not take unnecessary medicines
- Keep sugar and BP under control
- Bring past medical reports, if applicable
What If an Applicant is Unfit in GAMCA Medical?
If you get Unfit in GAMCA medical, you should:
- Read why in the report
- See a doctor right away
- Take proper treatment
- Wait for the report to expire (if you need to rebook)
- Contact WAFID support if needed
Conclusion
The GAMCA (WAFID) medical test is primarily concerned with severe infectious diseases and chronic conditions. Diseases such as HIV, TB, Hepatitis B/C, renal failure, cardiac failure, cancer and drug addiction are some of the common reasons for rejection.
It’s advisable to have a preliminary medical check-up before booking the GAMCA appointment.