After many months of negotiation, the union and MSC have reached agreement for CIVMARS to receive medical examinations while on leave. This program can benefit mariners who wish to extend their leave period rather than returning to the customer service unit (CSU) for physical examinations after their leave ends.Participation in the program is voluntary unless there are mission requirements which will necessitate that the CIVMAR interrupt his or her leave to receive a physical examination. CIVMARS who choose not to participate may return to the CSU in San Diego or Norfolk for their examinations.
The Afloat Personnel Management Center (APMC) will implement this new program gradually—giving CIVMARS living in the United States 30 days’ notice, and 60 days’ notice for CIVMARS living outside the States.
MSC hopes to have physical examinations completed while the CIVMAR is serving aboard a vessel and prior to the beginning of leave. If that cannot be accomplished, the mariner may choose to interrupt leave for an exam.
CIVMARS who choose to take an examination during leave must remember that it is very important to remain in contact with their detailers to ensure they have all the appointment information, travel information and funds needed to travel to the physical examination office. Mariners will be paid for the time it takes to complete the examination.
Mariners should make sure they understand what pay they will be entitled to in advance of their trip to the medical exam to avoid any misunderstandings.
CIVMARS who live outside the States must remember that if they are found not fit for duty and try to remain at home to get the treatment they need, their insurance may not cover fees for foreign doctors and medical treatments at foreign hospitals or clinics. Make sure you understand your insurance coverage. It also should be noted that prescription drugs may not be covered if they are obtained at foreign pharmacies.
APMC has sent out an announcement with all the details of this program to MSC vessels. If you have questions you can contact your MSO, the Force Medical Officers on each coast or your detailer. The Union and MSC will meet in six months to review the program. If you have comments about the program please send them to civmarsupport@seafarers.org.
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