AMO Currents - Coast Guard updates timeline for changes to merchant mariner medical evaluation forms

AMO Currents - Posted: October 13, 2009

Coast Guard updates timeline for changes to merchant mariner medical evaluation forms

As reported on AMO Currents, the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) 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) in November. The Coast Guard issued a formal announcement regarding the delayed release Oct. 9.

According to the announcement, the new forms will be available on the NMC Web site by Nov. 2, 2009. Mariners may voluntarily use the new form starting Nov. 2, 2009. Mariners may continue using the current four-page form until December 31, 2009, after which the new form will be mandatory. All physical exams completed on or after Jan. 1, 2010 must be documented on the new form. The NMC will provide a printable instruction guide and an online completion option when the form is released.

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. The complete announcement is available online.