AMO Currents - Coast Guard announces changes to merchant mariner medical evaluation forms

AMO Currents - Posted: August 11, 2009

Coast Guard announces changes to merchant mariner medical evaluation forms

The U.S. Coast Guard announced it will release new versions of the forms CG-719 K (Merchant Mariner Credential Medical Evaluation Report) and CG-719 K/E (Merchant Mariner Evaluation of Fitness for Entry Level Ratings).

The new forms will be available on the National Maritime Center (NMC) Web site by Sept. 1, 2009. Mariners may voluntarily use the new form starting Oct. 1, 2009. Mariners may continue using the current four-page form until December 31, 2009, after which the new form will be mandatory.

The new form is considerably longer and more complex than the current form. The NMC plans to conduct an informational campaign to reduce confusion over changes. American Maritime Officers will post additional information as it becomes available.

Only mariners seeking an entry-level credential (ordinary seaman, wiper or steward’s department) should use the CG-719 K/E. All officers should use the CG-719 K form.