Permanent residency health exams start Sept. 8th.

The Department of Pubic Heath will again be conducting health exams required for U.S. permanent residency starting Sept. 2, 1999, according to DPH Secretary Joseph K. Villagomez.

In a letter to U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Officer in Charge David K. Johnston dated Aug. 27, 1999, Villagomez wrote, “We are pleased to advise that we are coordinating with our clinic to make necessary arrangements.”

He said Deputy Secretary for Public Health Administration Ned S. Arriola would be the lead contact for the program.

According to Villagomez, DPH is resuming this function which was discontinued last March because INS is currently reviewing the application of two private clinics for certification and approval. The process of deciding which clinic will be chosen may take a couple of months. DPH has agreed to perform the service until a final decision is made.

Acting Deputy Secretary for Public Health Administration David B. Rosario stressed that this is only for persons applying for permanent residency.

Rosario said applicants must appear for appointment at the Public Health Cashier. Examinations are held on Wednesdays only from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Appointments will be accepted starting today. Cost estimates of health exams are $70 to $150.

Applicants must bring the following original documents:

• US Immigration and Naturalization Office, “Medical Examination of Aliens Seeking Adjustment of Status” Form 1-693 (Rev. 09/01/87);

• Birth Certificate;

• Marriage Certificate;

• Passport; and

• Immunization Records.

If an applicant is over 15 years old, they must receive chest X-ray-, RPR and HIV tests. If an applicant is under 15 years old they must receive PPD skin test (if positive must have chest X-ray).

Pregnant women will not receive a chest X-ray but will get a PPD skin test. If this is negative there is no need for a chest X-ray. If the PPD is positive then an X-ray is required after birth or depending on the recommendation by the doctor.

Rosario also offered the following information to assist the applicants:

Physical examinations done six months ago in the DPH will be accepted. No physical examination done outside the department will be accepted.

Blood tests done only by one of the CNMI private health clinics will be accepted provided that the results are sealed in an envelope marked “confidential”. Applicant must bring the results on the day of their appointment.

Chest X-ray done only by one of the private health clinics here will be accepted provided the applicant bring with them the film indicating their name on the film on the day of their appointment to be read by the hospital radiologist. Applicant will be charged for the reading of the X-ray film. Total “turn around time” is approximately 15-20 working days.

If potential applicants have questions about any of the medical procedures they can call DPH at 2349950, ext. 2005/2026 or address fax inquiries to Rosario at 233-0214.