Do you have to have a physical exam done before a work permit is issued to get a work visa?

You don't need to have a physical exam before an alien employment license is issued to you for China work visa application. However, for USA applicants, the physical examinination record is not required for work visa application, after you hold a work visa to enter China, a medical test will be done again for the residence permit application. If the company really want to get the "Physical Examination Record for a Foreigner", you can do it in a major and big hospital.