Updated 04.23.08
Hosted by Grossmont College
ORIENTATION GUIDE
By
Rolando Castillo, Ph.D.
Program Director
3955 Bonita Rd., Bldg. A, First Floor
Bonita, CA 91902
Phone: (619) 409-6417 Fax: (619) 409-6421
www.welcomebackcenter.org
contact@welcomebackcenter.org
Disclaimer: This information is provided only as an overview. All programs, processes,
and/or fees subject to change. Please verify information with appropriate
agency or governing body.
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“The mission of the Welcome Back Center is to
build a bridge between the need for
linguistically and culturally competent health
services in underserved communities, and the
pool of internationally trained health workers
living in California.”
The Welcome Back Center is sponsored by Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District
and has been funded by The California Endowment (TCE), the Health Resources & Services
Administration (HRSA), The California Wellness Foundation (TCWF), and major local
hospitals.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome Back Center Staff
Health Workforce Population & Statistics
The California Endowment Grant
Health Resources & Services Administration Grant
Program Facts (English)
Program Facts/Datos del Programa (Spanish)
Internationally Trained Healthcare Worker Pathways
Translation and Revalidation of Credentials
Professional Licensing Process & Access
- Foreign Medical Graduate Flowchart
- Medical Doctors – USMLE
- New York College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Foreign Educated Nurse Flowchart
- Nurses – CNA, LVN, RN Boards
- Foreign Dentists Flowchart
- Dentists/Dental Hygiene/Dental Assistant Boards
- Dentists – Advanced Standing Programs in CA
- Other Professions – Board Contacts
Exploration of Alternative Careers
- Teaching Opportunities
- Healthcare Careers at Grossmont College
- Physician Assistant Programs
- San Diego State University
- University of California, San Diego
Employment Opportunities
- What it takes to gain successful employment.
- One-Stop Career Centers Locations
WBC Programs & Courses
Consent to Participate (English & Spanish)
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San Diego Welcome Back Center
Staff
Project Director
Ann C. Durham, RN, MSN, FNP, JD.
Program Director
Rolando Castillo, Ph.D.
Nurse Program Coordinator
Bibiana Jakobs, RN, BSN
Nurse Manager
Elisabeth Hamel, Ed.D., RN
WBC Program Coordinator
Kevin Campbell, BA
Educational Case Manager
Laura Ann Fernea, MPH, MA
Educational Case Manager
Lorena Quiroz, MA
Clerical Assistant Sr.
Paola Alfaro
Employment Advisor
Debbie Smith
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CA Population and
Health Workforce
Latino
Af. Am.
Nat. Am.
API
White
CA Pop.
31%
7%
0.9%
12%
49%
Nurses
4%
4%
>1%
13%
79%
MD
4%
3%
>1%
21%
72%
DDS
6%
2%
0.2%
41%
52%
US Health Workforce & Population
Latino
Af. Am.
Nat. Am.
API
White
US Pop.
11.7%
12.6%
.8%
3.9%
71.3%
MD
5%
3%
>1%
11%
78%
Nurses
2%
5%
1%
4%
87%
DDS
3%
2%
>1%
5%
90%
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The California Endowment
Welcome Back – San Diego/Imperial Valley/Orange County
2002-2008
Executive Summary. International Health Worker Assistance Center
Demographic changes in the San Diego, Imperial and Orange County area are having a profound
impact on the local health care delivery system. As increasing numbers of immigrants and ethnic
minorities have sought health care, it has become evident that the health care delivery system
must adapt in order to meet their needs. The need for a culturally diverse and competent health
care workforce has never been greater.
The Regional Health Occupations Resource Center (RHORC) San Diego, Imperial and Orange
County has established an Internationally-Trained Health Care Worker Assistance Center in San
Diego (Welcome Back) to provide career counseling and training to internationally trained health
professionals residing in this region. The working site for Welcome Back has been housed in Kaiser
Permanente Clinic, 3955 Bonita Rd., Bldg. A, First Floor, Bonita, CA 91902. The establishment
of Welcome Back has been divided in a two-phase process. The first phase was the planning phase;
the second phase has been program implementation.
Our proposal addresses the California Endowment’s initiative on racial and ethnic disparities in
the health care workforce and the need for innovative and creative approaches for addressing
multicultural health. In addition, this proposal supports The Endowment’s Strategic Program
goals for Health Workforce Development to enhance the health of all Californians by using the
talents, cultures and assets of our multicultural society to improve our health care delivery
system, and to provide new and expanded career educational opportunities for underrepresented populations in the health care and public fields.
The need for a culturally competent health care workforce has been well documented. This need
has given rise to interpreter programs, diversity training and a plethora of cultural awareness and
sensitivity training programs for health professionals. Welcome Back has approached this issue of
cultural competence from a unique perspective of creating a “pipeline” for internationally
prepared health care workers living in the San Diego, Imperial and Orange County regions that
are currently employed in fields other than health care, or are under-employed in the health care
arena. They are blocked from working in the health care system because of lack of appropriate
U.S. licenses, certifications and/or credentialing.
Our Welcome Back Program in San Diego has received funding from The California
Endowment (TCE), Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), The California
Wellness Foundation (TCWF), and local major hospitals.
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Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)
Welcome Back- San Diego, CA
2004-2005
Three awards were provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) in
July 2004 to Grossmont College and the San Diego Welcome Back Center. Internationally
Trained Health Care Workers (ITHCWs) will have multiple opportunities to enter into a nursing
career pathway. This grant allows for increased recruitment and assistance of ITHCWS into
programs included in the Nursing Career Ladder, such as Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA),
Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs), and Registered Nurses (RNs). This program creates an
upward mobility in academic and clinical practice in an accelerated manner for those who are
interested in immersing into a much needed nursing workforce.
Internationally Trained Health Care Workers also have the opportunity to be recognized by two
California boards of nursing, the Board of Registered Nursing and Board of Vocational Nursing
and Psychiatric Technicians. Eligible ITHCWs receive instruction on core nursing subjects in
NCLEX Review courses to assist in passing the NCLEX-RN or PN examination. Finally,
support courses such as Occupational English, English for the Healthcare Professional and
Introduction to the Healthcare Profession are offered to support the ITHCWS in their upward
mobility on the nursing career ladder.
Newly licensed nurses will not only have a rich medical background, body of knowledge and a
nursing mindset, but they will also integrate their linguistic and cultural attributes in service
delivery of patient care.
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San Diego Welcome Back Center
International Health Worker Assistance Center
Program Facts
1. What is the Welcome Back Center?
The San Diego Welcome Back Center’s mission is “To build a bridge between the pool of internationally trained health
workers living in California and the need for linguistically and culturally competent health services in underserved
communities.” The goal of this exciting program is to assist health professionals from all over the world, who have
come to the United States and have not been able to exercise their professions.
To accomplish this goal, the Welcome Back Center is funded through a grant from The California Endowment as a
partnership between the Regional Health Occupations Resource Center, San Diego/ Imperial Valley and Grossmont
College.
2. What services are offered at the Welcome Back Center?
The San Diego Welcome Back Center provides orientation, counseling, and support to internationally trained health
workers. The Welcome Back Center assists each participant in developing a career path plan that builds on each
participant’s skills, experience, and education. In addition to orientation and support in obtaining the appropriate
professional credentials and licenses for their profession, participants are presented with other options or alternatives to
consider diversifying their careers. These options may include choosing a different health occupation offered through
Community Colleges, public/private Universities, affiliated groups or focusing their skills and experience in the areas
of health care management, research, advocacy, or policy.
3. Am I eligible for these services?
All international trained health workers currently living in California are eligible for the program. If a potential
participant lives closer to another Welcome Back Center, he/she is encouraged to contact that center directly (See
question 14 for list of Welcome Back Centers). The program does not have the capacity to serve persons living outside
of California. Persons living outside the United States are not eligible for the program.
4. How can I participate in the Welcome Back Center?
Call (619) 409-6417 for more information.
5. Does the Welcome Back Center assist all international health professionals?
Yes. The Center provides services to all eligible health professionals. This includes nurses, pharmacists, doctors,
dentists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, laboratory and other technicians, psychologists, social workers,
health educators, and others.
6. Do I need a work permit to be a participant of the Welcome Back Center?
Everyone is welcome to participate in the San Diego Welcome Back Center. The Center shares any knowledge and
information we have about work permits or employer-based “sponsorships”; however, we do not have any influence or
means to procure these plans for participants. The Center has a list of agencies, which offer advice/services on
immigration status matters.
7. Does the Center offer educational scholarships?
No. The Center did not receive funding to provide educational scholarships; however, the Welcome Back Educational
Case Manager helps to link participants to college, universities, related sources and their financial aid offices.
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8. Does the Welcome Back Center offer professional licenses?
No. Each participant will have to follow existing licensing procedures for their associated professions. The Center
provides orientation about existing licensing procedures. (In some instances, the Center will purchase license exam
preparation materials to share with the participants.)
9. Does the Welcome Back Center offer job placement?
No. The Center does not directly find jobs for participants; however, a job announcement board will be available to
share information with participants about job opportunities upon notification by potential employers and other
agencies.
10. If my English-speaking skills are a challenge for me, is an interpreter available to assist me at the Welcome
Back Center?
Welcome Back Center staff members communicate in several languages. We will do our best to provide interpreter
assistance and/or resources on an individual case-by-case basis.
11. As an eligible participant, what is the first step in the process?
There is an initial telephone screening completed by a Welcome Back Center representative. After the initial telephone
contact, an appointment is set up for you to meet with the Educational Case Manager. The Educational Case Manager
will meet with you to discuss your educational and professional experience. The Education Case Manager will offer
information and provide guidance about licensing requirements, credential validation agencies, schools, and associated
courses (including English language skills courses). With the assistance of the case manager, you will develop a career
path plan with the goal of practicing your profession or finding an alternative career in the health field.
12. When I meet with the Educational Case Manager, what will I need to bring with me?
You will need to bring copies of your degree(s) and transcripts (Classes and grades from your University) as well as
copies of other certifications and/or licenses and professional identifications. If you have a professional resumé
showing your work experience in your health profession, please bring it to your scheduled appointment.
13. Will the Welcome Back Center place me in contact with other health professionals going through the same
process?
Yes. The Welcome Back Center has developed group workshops, activities, and general information meetings to serve
as peer support groups by profession.
14. Are there other Welcome Back Centers in California?
There are currently three Welcome Back Centers in the State of California. In addition to San Diego, other centers are
located in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Boston, Massachusetts.
For more information log on to
www.welcomebackcenter.org
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San Diego Welcome Back Center
International Health Worker Assistance Center
Datos del Programa
1. Quiénes somos: Centro ‘Bienvenidos’?
La misión del Centro ‘Bienvenidos’ en San Diego es “Construir un puente entre trabajadores internacionales de la
salud que viven en California y la necesidad de proveer servicios de salud con afinidad de lenguaje y cultural en
comunidades de bajo acceso.” La meta de este emocionante programa es de ayudar a profesionales de la salud de
todas partes del mundo, que han venido a los Estados Unidos y no han podido ejercer sus profesiones.
Para lograr esta meta, el Centro ‘Bienvenidos’ ha sido patrocinado con fondos de The California Endowment, en
asociación con el Centro Regional De Ocupaciones y Recursos de la Salud, San Diego/Valle Imperial y el
Colegio Grossmont.
2. Qué servicios ofrece el Centro ‘Bienvenidos’?
El Centro ‘Bienvenidos’ en San Diego proporciona orientación, consejería, y apoyo a trabajadores de la salud
graduados en el extranjero. El Centro ‘Bienvenidos’ asiste a cada participante a construir un plan de carrera
profesional, que se desarrolla de acuerdo a las habilidades, experiencias y educación de cada participante.
Además de orientación y apoyo para obtener las credenciales profesionales apropiadas y las licensias para su
profesión, los participantes son expuestos a otras opciones o alternativas que consideran la diversificación de sus
carreras en el campo de la salud.Estas opciones pueden incluir seleccionar una ocupación diferente de la salud,
ofrecida por Colegios de la Comunidad, Universidades públicas/privadas, grupos afiliados, o enfocar sus
habilidades y experiencias en áreas de administración del cuidado de la salud, investigación, cabildeo, o poliza.
3. Soy elegible para estos servicios?
Todos los trabajadores de salud internacionales que actualmente viven en California son elegibles para el
programa. Si un aplicante vive cerca de otro Centro ‘Bienvenidos’, a él/ella es se le pide contactar directamente su
Centro Regional (ver pregunta #14 para lista de Centros ‘Bienvenidos’). El programa no tiene la capacidad de
servir a personas que viven fuera de California. Las personas que viven fuera de los Estados Unidos tampoco son
elegibles para el programa.
4. Como puedo participar en el Centro ‘Bienvenidos”?
Llame al (619) 409-6417 para más información.
5. El Centro ‘Bienvenidos’ asiste a todos los profesionales internacionales de la salud?
Sí. El centro proporciona servicios a todos los profesionales de la salud que sean elegibles.Estos incluyen
enfermeros, farmacólogos, médicos, dentistas, terapeutas profesionales, técnicos de laboratorio, psicólogos,
trabajadores sociales, educadores de la salud, y otros más.
6. Necesito un permiso de trabajo para ser participante del Centro ‘Bienvenidos’?
Todos son bienvenidos a participar en el Centro “Bienvenidos’ de San Diego. El centro comparte cualquier
conocimiento e información que tenga acerca de permisos de trabajo o “patrocinio” por parte del empleador; sin
embargo, no se tiene ninguna influencia o medios para conseguir estos planes para participantes. El Centro tiene
una lista de agencias, que ofrecen servicios/consejería en cuestiones migratorias.
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7. El Centro ofrece becas educacionales?
No. El Centro no recibió fondos para proporcionar becas educativas; sin embargo, la consejera/Educational Case
Manager ayuda a generar enlaces entre los participantes y Colegios, Universidades, fuentes relacionadas y sus
oficinas de ayuda financiera.
8. El Centro ‘Bienvenidos’ ofrece credenciales profesionales o licencias?
No. Cada participante tendrá que seguir los procedimientos que permiten accesar licensias para cada profesión. El
Centro proporciona orientación sobre dichos procedimientos. ( En algunos casos, el centro comprará materiales de
preparación para examenes de licensia, que podrán ser compartidos entre sus participantes.)
9. El Centro ‘Bienvenidos’ ofrece ayuda con empleos?
No. El centro no encuentra directamente empleos para participantes; sin embargo, una vez que se reciba
notificación por parte de empleadores, existe una red de anuncios de empleos disponibles para participantes.
10. Si el idioma del Inglés es un desafío para mí, habra algun intérprete disponible para ayudarme en el Centro
‘Bienvenidos’?
El personal del Centro ‘Bienvenidos’ habla diferentes idiomas. Haremos todo lo posible para proporcionar ayuda
y/o recursos dependiedo de cada caso.
11. Como participante elegible, cuál es el primer paso a seguir?
El primer paso es una breve entrevista por telefóno hecha por el personal del Centro ‘Bienvenidos’. Después de
esta entrevista por telefóno, se establece una cita para que usted se reuna con la consejera/Educational Case
Manager. La consejera/Educational Case Manager se reunirá con usted para discutir su formación académica y
profesional. La consejera/Educational Case Manager le ofrecerá información y proporcionará guiones sobre los
requisitos de licensiatura, agencias de revalidación de credenciales, escuelas, y cursos adecuados (incluyendo
cursos de Inglés). Con la ayuda de la consejera/Educational Case Manager, usted desarrollará un plan de carrera
profesional con la meta de ejercer su profesión o encontrar una carrera alterna en el campo de la salud.
12. Qué necesito traer a la cita con la consejera/ Educational Case Manager?
Usted necesitará traer copias de su título(s), cardex (clases y calificaciones de la Universidad) así como también
copias de otras certificaciones y/o licensias e identificaciones profesionales (cédula profesional). Si usted tiene un
curriculum vitae que muestre su experiencia de trabajo en su profesión en el campo de la salud, sírvase traerlo a
su cita.
13. El Centro ‘Bienvenidos’ me pondrá en contacto con otros profesionales de la salud que están pasando por el
mismo proceso?
Sí. El centro ‘Bienvenidos’ ha desarrollado talleres, actividades y reuniones generales de información dirigidos a
las diferentes profesiones para servir como grupos de apoyo .
14. Existen otros Centros ‘Bienvenidos’ en California?
Actualmente hay tres Centros ‘Bienvenidos’ en el estado de California. Además de San Diego, otros Centros se
encuentran en Los Angeles, San Francisco, y Boston Massachusetts.
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Internationally Trained Healthcare Worker (ITHW)
Pathways
Internationally Trained
Healthcare Worker (ITHW)
Professional
Licensing
Process and
Access
Exploration of
Alternative
Careers
Employment
Opportunities
Revalidation of Credentials can benefit any
pathway chosen.
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Translation of Credentials
Various institutions require translators to be accredited and/or certified. The American Translators Association (ATA)
accredits/certifies individual translators by examination. Although accreditation is available only to individuals, ATA
membership includes not only individuals but also companies that employ accredited translators.
Note:
Revalidation agencies such as IERF “reserve the right to request translations prepared by licensed translation services.“
For a more extensive list of translators for various languages you may go to ATA website and use a searchable database
to find a translator or interpreter. This online directory features the profiles of 5224 translators and interpreters. Go to:
www.americantranslators.org/tsd_listings
Manuel Duran
PO Box 4731
West Covina, CA 91791
Phone: 800.464.3926 Fax: 626.608.2428
Pgr: 714.385.0894
Spanish to English (vice-versa)
Teresa Yolanda Lopez
1135 Harding Avenue
National City, CA 91950
Phone: 619.948.2447
Email: tylc25@hotmail.com
Spanish to English (vice-versa)
Lucia M. Bonis
PO Box 15033
San Diego, CA 92175
Phone/Fax: 619.287.2876
Email: lmbonis@cox.net
Spanish to English (vice-versa)
SBD Interpreting Services, Inc.
Susana B. Deicas, President
P.O. Box 9033
La Jolla CA 92038
Phone: (858) 459-3134 Fax: (858) 459-0768
Email: info@sbdinterpreting.com
Website: www.sbdinterpreting.com
All Languages to English (vice-versa)
Maritza F. Cardoso-Vicente
5525 East Joaquin Court
Commerce, CA 90040
Phone: 323.363.5663 Fax: 253.390.1074
Email: mitziecat1@sbcglobal.net
Spanish to English (vice-versa)
!
For a list of MORE translators go to:
www.americantranslators.org/tsd_listings
Revalidation of Credentials
Please note that institutions require revalidated transcripts from specific agencies. Below are a sample of various
revalidation agencies, it is STRONGLY recommended you contact the Welcome Back Center (619.409.6417) to
determine which Revalidation Agency meets your needs.
FIRST Recommended agency
by Grossmont College
International Education Research
Foundation (IERF), Inc.
PO Box 3665
Culver City, CA 90231-3665
www.ierf.org
(phone) 310.258.9451
Educational Credential Evaluation (ECE)
PO Box 514070
Milwaukee, WI 53203
www.ece.org
(phone) 414.289.3400
(fax) 414.289.3411
!
Alternate Recommended agency
by Grossmont College
Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute (ACEI)
P.O. Box 6908
Beverly Hills, CA 90212, USA
www.acei1.com
(phone) 310.275.3530
(fax) 310.275.3528
World Education Services
PO Box 745
Old Chelsea Station
New York, NY 10113-0745
www.wes.org
(phone) 212.966.6311
Important: Contact the Welcome Back Center (619.409.6417) to determine which agency is
best for you and/or to find other agencies. Not all agencies may meet your needs.
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PROFESSIONAL
LICENSING
PROCESS
and
ACCESS
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San Diego Welcome Back Center
3955 Bonita Road
Building A, First floor
Bonita, CA 91902
(619) 409-6417
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MEDICAL DOCTORS
UNITED STATES MEDICAL LICENSING EXAMINATION
(USMLE)
For General Inquires and Correspondence:
Education Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG)
3624 Market Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-2685
Tel: (215) 386-5900
Fax: (215) 387-9196
www.ecfmg.org
Medical Board of California
1426 Howe Avenue, #54
Sacramento, CA 95825
Tel: (916) 263-2382
www.medbd.ca.gov
New York College of Osteopathic Medicine
of New York Institute of Technology Émigré Physician Program (EPP)
A 4 year program for international medical graduates, which encompasses a biomedical science
component in years 1 and 2, and a clinical clerkship component in years 3 and 4.
Northern Boulevard
Old Westbury, NY 11568-8000
(516) 686-3747
http://www.nyit.edu/nycom/
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NURSES
-RN & NPBoard of Registered Nurses (BRN)
P.O. Box 944210
Sacramento, CA 94244-2100
www.rn.ca.gov
TEL: (916) 322-3350
-LVNBoard of Vocational Nurses and Psychiatric Technician’s Examiners (BVNPT)
2535 Capital Oaks Drive Suite 205
Sacramento, CA 95833
www.bvnpt.ca.gov
TEL: (916) 322-3350
-CNADepartment of Health Services License and Certification Programs
Aid and Technician Certification Section
1800 3rd St. #210
P.O. Box 942732
Sacramento, CA 94234
www.dhs.cahwnet.gov
TEL: (916) 327-2445
Commission on Graduates of Foreign Nursing Schools (CGFNS)
3600 Market Street, Suite 400
Philadelphia, PA 19104-2651
www.cgfns.org
TEL: (215) 349-8767
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San Diego Welcome Back Center
3955 Bonita Road
Building A, First floor
Bonita, CA 91902
(619) 409-6417
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DENTISTS
Dental Board of California
1432 Howe Avenue, Suite 85
Sacramento, CA 95825
Tel: (916) 263-2300
www.dbc.ca.gov
American Dental Association National Board Dental Hygiene Examination
211 E. Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60611-2678
Tel: (312) 440-2500
www.ada.org
Registered Dental Assistant Committee on Dental Auxiliaries
Board of Dental Examiners
1428 Howe Avenue, Suite 58
Sacramento, CA 95825
Tel: (916) 263-2595
http://www.comda.ca.gov
California Dental Board Most Recently Approved
Dental School & New Advanced Standing Program
Universidad De La Salle
Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico
Tel: (477) 710-8570
Email: opi@bajio.delasalle.edu.mx
www.delasalle.edu.mx
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ADVANCED STANDING PROGRAMS FOR
TERNATIONAL DENTIST PROGRAMS
IN CALIFORNIA
University of Southern California
School of Dentistry
Advanced Standing Program for International Dentists (ASPID)
925 West 34th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0641
(213) 740-2800
http://www.usc.edu/hsc/dental/academic_programs/index.htm
University of California, Los Angeles
School of Dentistry
Professional Program for International Dentists (PPID)
A0-111 Center for the Health Sciences
Los Angeles, CA 90095
(310) 825-6218
http://uclasod.dent.ucla.edu/admissions/index.asp?id=389&ph=1
Loma Linda University
School of Dentistry
International Dentist Program (IDP)
Loma Linda University
Loma Linda, CA 92350
(909) 558-4621 or (800) 422-4558
http://www.llu.edu/llu/dentistry/idp/admnidp.html
University of the Pacific
School of Dentistry
International Dentist Studies (IDS)
2155 Webster Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 929-6400
http://dental.pacific.edu/admissions1/IDS/admission.htm
University of California San Francisco
School of Dentistry
International Dentist Program (IDP)
707 Parnassus Avenue, Suite D-4010, Box 0636
San Francisco, CA 94143
(415) 476-1101
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http://dentistry.ucsf.edu/admissions/admiss_program9.html
PSYCHOLOGISTS
Board of Behavioral Sciences
Marriage and Family Therapist
‘Intern Registration Application Packet’
400 R Street, Suite 3150
Sacramento, CA 95814-6240
Tel: (916) 445-4933
www.bbs.ca.gov
California Board of Psychology
1422 Howe Ave., Suite 22
Sacramento, CA 95825-3200
Tel: (916) 263-2699
www.psychboard.ca.gov
Additional training for Psychologists:
National Association of Social Workers (California Chapter)
www.naswca.org/ce/ce.html
SOCIAL WORKERS
Board of Behavioral Sciences
‘Associate Clinical Social Worker Registration Application Packet’
400 R Street, Suite 3150
Sacramento, CA 95814-6240
Tel: (916) 445-4933
Fax: (916) 323-0707
www.bbs.ca.gov/pdf/aswapp.pdf
Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)
1725 Duke St., Suite 500
Alexandria, VA 22314-3457
Tel: (703) 683-8080
Fax: (703) 683-8099
www.cswe.org
Additional training for Social Workers:
National Association of Social Workers (California Chapter)
www.naswca.org/ce/ce.html
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CHEMISTS / BIOLOGISTS / LAB SCIENTISTS
National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences
8410 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 670
Chicago, Il 60631
Tel: (773) 714-8880
info@naacls.org
http://www.naacls.org
PATHOLOGISTS
National Professional Association
American Society for Clinical Pathology
2100 W. Harrison St.
Chicago, IL 60612
Tel: (312) 738-1336
www.ascp.org
RADIOLOGISTS
Department of Health Services Radiology Department
Radiologic Health Branch, MS 7610
P.O. Box 997414
Sacramento, CA 95899-7414
Tel: (916) 327.5106
www.dhs.ca.gov/rhb
PHARMACISTS
California State Board of Pharmacy
Pharmacy Technician
400 R St., Suite 4070
Sacramento, CA 95814
Tel: (916) 445-5014
Fax: (916) 327-6308
www.pharmacy.ca.gov
National Association of Board of Pharmacy
Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Examination Committee (FPGEC)
1600 Feehanville Drive
Mount Prospect, IL 60056
Tel: (847) 391-4406
www.nabp.net
34
PHYSICAL THERAPISTS
Physical Therapy Board of California
1418 Howe Ave., Suite 16
Sacramento, CA 95825-3204
Tel: (916) 561-8200
www.ptb.ca.gov
Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy
www.fsbpt.org
Prometric Test Center
www.2test.com
National Physical Therapy Exam
http://www.fsbpt.org/download/candidatehandbook.pdf
SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGISTS OR
AUDIOLOGIST
California Speech-Language-Hearing Association
www.csha.org
California Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board
REQUEST FOR: Professional Experience Packet (RPE)
1422 Howe Ave., Suite #3
Sacramento, CA 95825
Tel: (916) 263-2666
www.slpab.ca.gov
The Praxis Series – Educational Testing Service
Rosedale Road
Princeton, NJ 08541
Tel: (609) 921-9000
www.ets.org
35
OPTOMETRISTS
Board of Optometry
400 R St., Suite 4090
Sacramento, CA 95814
Tel: (916) 323-8720
Fax: (916) 445-8711
www.optometry.ca.gov
National Board of Examiners in Optometry
200 S. College Street, #1920
Charlotte, NC 28202
Tel: (704) 332-9565
Fax: (704) 332-9568
www.optometry.org
DIETITIANS
-Dietetic TechnicianCommission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
120 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 2000
Chicago, Illinois 60606-6995
Phone: 312-899-0040 Ext. 5500
Fax: 312-899-4772
E-mail: cdr@eatright.org
www.cdrnet.org
Commission on Accreditation for dietetics education
www.eatright.org/cade/intfactsheet.html
Accredited Dietetics Programs
www.eatright.org/cade
36
EXPLORATION
OF
ALTERNATIVE
CAREERS
37
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38
SUBSTITUTE TEACHING OPPORTUNITY
California Basic Education Skills Test
(CBEST)
National Evaluation Systems, Inc
P.O. Box 340880
Sacramento, CA 95834-0880
(916) 928-4001
www.cbest.nesinc.com
Other Helpful Websites on Teaching:
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
www.ctc.ca.gov.
Education Job Opportunities information network
www.ed-join.org
CSET information and practice tests
www.cset.nesinc.com
Updates on teacher education programs at California Community
Colleges.
www.cccteach.org
39
HEALTHCARE CAREERS AT
GROSSMONT COLLEGE
CARDIOVASCULAR TECHNOLOGY
* Cardiac Ultrasound
* Echocardiography
* Cardiology Technician
* Vascular Ultrasound
* Electrocardiography
Coordinator: Rick Kirby
Tel: (619) 644-7303
E-mail: Rick.Kirby@gcccd.edu
ORTHOPEDIC TECHNOLOGY
Coordinator: Rick Kirby
Tel: (619) 644-7303
E-mail: Rick.Kirby@gcccd.edu
RESPIRATORY THERAPY
Coordinator: Lorenda Seibold-Phalan
Tel: (619) 644-7448
E-mail: Lorenda.Seibold-Phalan@gcccd.edu
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY ASSISTANT
Coordinator: Christi Viciano
Tel: (619) 644-7448
E-mail: Christi.viciano@gcccd.edu
SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY ASSITANT (SLPA)
Faculty Contact: Donna Swanson-Perrelet
Tel: (619) 644-7430
E-mail: Donna.Swanson-Perrelet@gcccd.edu
40
California Physician Assistant Schools
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science
College of Science & Health
1731 East 120th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90059
(323) 563-5849
www.cdrewu.edu/cosh/physician_assistant/physician_assi
stant.htm
Email: mavalero@cdrewu.edu
University of California – Davis
Physician Assistant Program/Family Nurse Practitioner
Program
Department of Family and Community Medicine
2516 Stockton Blvd. Suite 254
Sacramento, CA 95817
(916) 734-3551
http://fnppa.ucdavis.edu/
Email: patty.frank@ucdmc.ucdavis.edu
University of Southern California/Keck School of
Medicine
Primary Care Physician Assistant Program
1000 S Fremont Ave
Unit 7 Bldg A6 4th Fl
Alhambra, CA 91803
(626) 457-4240
www.usc.edu/schools/medicine/education/degrees_progra
ms/pa.html
e-mail: uscpa@usc.edu
Touro University at Mare Island College
Masters in Physician Assistant Studies/ MPH
Office of Admissions
1310 Johnson Ln., Mare Island
Vallejo, CA 94592
(707) 638-5200
http://www.tumi.edi/cohs.html
sdavis@touro.edu
Riverside County Regional Medical Center/
Riverside Community College
16130 Lasselle Street
Moreno Valley, CA 92551
(909) 485-6135
www.rcc.edu/academicPrograms/physicianAssistant/
Samuel Merritt College
Physician Assistant Program
450 30th Street
Oakland, CA 94609
(510) 869-6623
www.samuelmerritt.edu
Email: admission@samuelmerrit.edu
Stanford University School of Medicine
Primary Care Associate Program
School of Medicine
1215 Welch Road, Modular G
Palo Alto, CA 94304-5408
(650) 725-6959
www.stanford.edu/program/pa.html
Email: pcap-information@lists.stanford.edu
Western University of Health Sciences
Primary Care Physician Assistant Program
College Plaza
309 E. Second Street
Pomona, CA 91766-1854
(909) 623-6116
www.westernu.edu/cahp/mspa_about.xml
Email: admissions@westernu.edu
San Joaquin Valley College
Primary Care Physician Assistant Program
8400 W. Mineral King Avenue
Visalia, CA 93291
(866) 544-7898
http://www.sjvc.edu/programs/pa2.php
Loma Linda University
Physician Assistant Program
School of Allied Health Professions
Loma Linda, CA 92350
(909) 558-7295
http://www.llu.edu//llu/sahp/bulletin
Email: admissions@sahp.llu.edu
Central Application Service for
Physician Assistants (CASPA)
www.caspaonline.org
*NOTE: Each school has specific requirements. Please
check with the school for detailed information on admissions
process.
41
MASTER’S PROGRAMS
www.sdsu.edu
GRADUATE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
http://publichealth.sdsu.edu/
DEGREE – Public Health
DEPARTMENT OF COUNSELING AND SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY
http://edweb.sdsu.edu/csp/
DEGREES:
Marriage and Family Therapy
School Counseling
School Psychology
Community-Based Block Program (1 Year Master’s in Education with an emphasis in
Counseling)
SDSU College of Extended Studies
http://www.ces.sdsu.edu/
Certificates:
Cultural & Community Trauma Studies
Healthcare Education
Gerontology
Translation & Court Interpreting
Instructional Technology
Applied Linguistics & English as a Second Language
42
UCSD - EXTENSION
Master’s Level Academic
& Certificate Programs
www.extension.ucsd.edu/healthcare
www.extension.ucsd.edu
http://oaped.ucsd.edu
Healthcare & Behavioral Science
UCSD Graduate Degrees for Professionals:
Master’s Degree in Clinical Research
Master’s Degree in the Leadership of Healthcare
Organizations
Certificate Programs:
Healthcare Executive Leadership Program
Clinical Laboratory Scientist
Nuclear Medicine Technology
Clinical Trials
Lactation Consultant
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counseling
Fitness Instruction/Exercise Science
Specialty Courses:
Medical Practice Immersion Program
Nursing: Forensic, Re-Entry, Case Management
Lactation Educator/Counselor
Clinical Trials
English Language Institute
Medical English
Medical English Online
Pronunciation and Fluency
Education
Specialized Certificates:
College Counseling
Community College Instruction
Adult Education Credential
Professional Certificates:
Teaching English to Speakers of Other
Languages (TESOL)
Bioscience
Certificate Programs:
Biotechnology Manufacturing
Regulatory Affairs for the Biomedical Industry
43
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44
EMPLOYMENT
OPPORTUNITIES
45
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46
EMPLOYMENT PREPAREDNESS
Many IHTW’s lack the skills to search, apply and interview for employment.
In many countries, jobs are assigned after completing an educational
program or internship. Understanding cultural differences and a good grasp
of the English language are crucial for successful employment.
Community college career centers and county One-Stop Career Centers
offer free assistance with job searching, application process, interviewing
skills, salary negotiation, computer basics, and much more.
Most positions require experience or some type of certification or license.
Even so, after completion of professional credential’s revalidation some of
our participants have applied for positions such as, Health Program
Educator, Case Manager, Teacher, Research Associate, Health Program
Coordinator, or Outreach Worker/Promotora. Your case manager will help
you determine whether you may be qualified to apply for some of these
positions.
Volunteer opportunities can also help the ITHW become exposed to the
healthcare setting and understand cultural norms around patient provider
communication. Talk to your case manager about volunteer opportunities.
47
One- Stop Career Center Orientation Schedules
Career Center
East County Career Center
924 E. Main Street
El Cajon, CA 92021
619-590-3900
Metro Career Center –
3910 University Avenue
San Diego, CA 92105
619-516-2200
North County Coastal Career Center
1949 Avenida del Oro, Suite 106
Oceanside, CA 92056
760-631-6150
North County Inland Career Center
463 N. Midway Drive #100
Escondido, CA 92027
760-738-0274
South County Career Center
1111 Bay Blvd, Suite E
Chula Vista, CA 91911
619-628-0300
South Metro Career Center
4389 Imperial Ave
San Diego, CA 92113
619-266-4200
Times of Orientation
Comments
Monday – Friday
1:30 pm
Orientation lasts about one
hour and tour of the Career
Center is provided. Please
arrive 10 minutes early.
Tuesdays - 9 am
Orientation lasts about one
hour; a tour of the Center,
training information and
scheduling of eligibility
appointments are provided.
1st & 3rd Wednesdays – 5:30 pm
Tuesdays – 1:30 pm
Thursdays – 9:00 am
Wednesdays – 9 am
1st visit will be to complete the
application then the orientation
appointment is made. Due
limited parking please arrive 30
minutes early the day of your
scheduled Orientation.
Orientation lasts about two
hours and a tour of the Career
Center is provided.
Monday – Thursday
8:45am, 10:45am,
1:45pm
Fill out membership application
and Ability to Benefit
questionnaire, tour of the center
and meet with an Employment
Advisor
2nd & 4th Wednesdays – 5:30 pm
Orientations last about one hour.
Training
information
and
scheduling
of
eligibility
appointments are provided
Thursdays – 9am
Thursdays – 10:30am - Spanish
** Call the Career Center BEFORE attending an Orientation
to ensure the time and date has not changed **
48
Local Hospital Sites & Clinic Websites
Alvaro Hospital Medical Center
Children’s Hopistal & Health Center
Fallbrook Hospital District
Kaiser Permanente Medical Center
Naval Medical Center San Diego
Palomar Medical Center
Paradise Valley Hospital
Pomerado Hospital
San Diego Health Centers
Scripps Green Hospital - La Jolla
Scripps Memorial Hospital - Chula Vista
Scripps Mercy Hospital - Encinitas
Scripps Mercy Hospital - La Jolla
Scripps Mercy Hospital
Sharp Cabrillo Hospital
Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center
Sharp Coronado Hospital
Sharp Mary Birch Hospital
Sharp Memorial Hospial
Sharp Mesa Vista
Tri-City Medical Center
UCSD Thornton Hospital - Hillcrest
UCSD Thornton Hospital - La Jolla
UCSD Veterans Affair - La Jolla
San Ysidro Health Centers
www..alvaradohospital.com
www..chsd.org
www..kindredhealthcare.com
www..kaiserpermanentejobs.org
www.nmcsd.ed.nay.mil
www.pphcareers.org
www.paradisevalley.org
www.pphcareers.org
www.sdhospice.org
www.scrippshealth.org
www.scrippshealth.org
www.scrippshealth.org
www.scrippshealth.org
www.scrippshealth.org
www.scrippshealth.org
www.sharp.com
www.sharp.com
www.sharp.com
www.sharp.com
www.sharp.com
www.tri-citymed.com
www.health.ucsd.edu
www.healthcusd.edu
www.health.cusd.edu
www.syhc.org
Health Jobs Search Engines
Health Careerweb.com
Health Care Job Store
HireHealth.com
Other
www.healthcareerweb.com
www.healthcarejobstore.com
www.hirehealt.com
www.simplyhired.com
Research jobs
Scripps Clinic Research Institute
www.scripps.edu/e_index.html
Biotechnology Jobs
San Diego Biotechnology Education Consortium
www.sdbiotechcareers.org
Note: You can also visit several of these websites for volunteer opportunities.
49
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50
WBC
PROGRAMS AND
COURSES
51
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52
San Diego Welcome Back Center
Visit our website for most updated information or call us at 619.409.6417.
www.welcomebackcenter.org
WBC Courses – Inquire Within
Introduction to U.S. Healthcare
English for Healthcare Professionals
NCLEX Prep-to-Prep (Bilingual- Spanish / English)
NCLEX Review Course
NBDE Part 1 – Basic Sciences Course
Accelerated ADN RN
53
Program Access
Nurses: Refresher/Re-entry Program
USMLE Step 1 – Basic Sciences & Step 2 – Clinical Sciences Course
Accelerated Certified Nurses Assistant (CNA) Access:
Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) Access
Proposed Accelerated Dental Hygiene Program
History of WBC Programs Completed
(For certification or licensing)
Medical Assistant Program
Pharmacy Technician Review Program
Phlebotomy Course
Emergency Medical Technician Program
Please note that dates, times, and fees may change.
54
ORIENTATION NOTES
55
ORIENTATION NOTES
56
San Diego Welcome Back Center
A Joint Project of RHORC/Grossmont College
CONSENT TO PARTICIPATE
English
The San Diego Welcome Back Center is a program designed for internationally trained health workers. The goal of
the program is to serve as a resource center for internationally trained health workers seeking to become licensed in
their profession or seeking to explore an alternative career in the health sector. I understand that as a participant in
the San Diego Welcome Back Center, I will receive the following services at no cost:





Information and orientation about the licensing process for my profession
Individual Case Management and Counseling centered on my professional and educational goals
Assistance in developing an individualized career plan
Information about health careers offered by city colleges and universities
The opportunity to participate in groups offered by the Center
The Center will also offer courses through Grossmont College and other Community Colleges. The fees for these
courses will be based on fees established by these institutions for all students. The Educational Case Manager can
assist participants in applying for financial aid from these institutions when necessary.
I understand that the San Diego Welcome Back Center was funded with the purpose of enhancing the health
workforce serving underserved and immigrant communities. I agree that to the extent possible, I will participate in
Center activities geared to benefit the health of these communities. I am also willing to make a personal
commitment to serve these communities in my capacity as a health worker once I achieve my professional
and educational goals. I understand this commitment is a symbolic payment for the services I received from
the San Diego Welcome Back Center.
I understand that The Welcome Back Center, Grossmont College, The California Endowment, or any other entity
associated with this program does not ensure enrollment into any programs and does not guarantee or secure
placement for medical residency. I understand that the services provided by The Welcome Back Center are solely for
International Medical Graduates and health workers who currently reside/live in California. I understand that any
information regarding a course or program being developed or implemented by The Welcome Back Center and
facilitated by an educational institution must be confirmed by administration or appropriate personnel of that particular
educational institution. I understand that any information regarding any particular program or course is subject to
change.
Confidentiality
As a participant of the San Diego Welcome Back Center, a program of Grossmont College, you have a legal right to
the privacy of your records. Except as required by law, no information provided by you in the course of your
participation in the Center can be released without your prior written consent. All information you provide to the San
Diego Welcome Back Center will be treated as confidential information.
Communication
I consent to the San Diego Welcome Back Center staff contacting me via the contact information I provided to the
San Diego Welcome Back Center on the form referred to as the “First Contact Sheet”. I understand and agree to the
San Diego Welcome Back Center sending me emails/mailing or calling me to provide me information on programs,
courses, projects, events, meetings, seminars and any other activities that are facilitated through and affiliated with
the San Diego Welcome Back Center.
Program Evaluation
I understand that the San Diego Welcome Back Center is part of a California-wide evaluation. The evaluation seeks
to understand how many internationally trained health workers are in California, what are their professions and what
are barriers they have experienced in trying to practice their profession. The Center also seeks to evaluate the
effectiveness of the services provided. I understand that any information I give will only be used for evaluation
purposes in aggregate and that my name or any other identifying information will not be part of any evaluation reports
or evaluation data collected.
My signature below signifies that I fully understand and agree to the statements and information given
above:
___________________________________________
Participant’s Signature
__________________________________
Welcome Back ECM/ECMA Signature
_________________________________________
Please PRINT CLEARLY your full Name
__________________________________
Welcome Back ECM/ECMA Name
___________________
Date
___________________
Date
57
San Diego Welcome Back Center
Un programa de RHORC/Grossmont College
CONSENTIMIENTO DE PARTICIPACIÓN
San Diego Welcome Back Center fue diseñado para profesionales en el sector salud que cursaron sus estudios en el
extranjero. La meta del programa es crear un centro de recursos y asistencia. El centro ayudará a profesionales en
el proceso de obtener certificados y licencias para ejercer sus profesiones y/o considerar como alternativa otra
carrera en el sector salud. Entiendo que como participante en el San Diego Welcome Back Center, recibiré los
siguientes servicios sin costo:




Información y orientación sobre el proceso de obtener credenciales y certificados y licensias para ejercer mi
profesión en California.
Consejería y asistencia individual enfocada en mis metas educacionales y profesionales
Asistencia en desarrollar un plan con mis metas profesionales
Información sobre diferentes programas de entrenamiento en el sector salud que ofrecen varias
universidades y colegios.
El centro también ofrecerá cursos a través de Grossmont Colelge y otros Colegios Communitatios. El costo de estos
cursos será el costo establecido en estas instituciones para todo estudiante. La Consejero/a Educacional puede
asistir a los participantes a solicitar ayuda financiera que colegios o universidades suministren.
Entiendo que el San Diego Welcome Back Center recibió fondos en gran parte con el propósito de incrementar la
diversidad cultural y lingüística de la fuerza de trabajo del sector salud. Sobre todo, la fuerza de trabajo que presta
servicios a inmigrantes y comunidades con pocos recursos. Estoy de acuerdo que cuando me sea posible,
participaré en actividades del centro que contribuyan a la salud de estas comunidades. Como pago
simbólico a los servicios prestados por el centro, haré un compromiso conmigo mismo de prestar servicios
de salud a estas comunidades una vez obtenga mis metas profesionales.
Entiendo que el programa Welcome Back, Grossmont College, The California Endowment, o cualquier otra entidad
asociada con este programa no asegura la matriculación en sus cursos y no garantiza o asegura la colocación para
la residencia médica. Entiendo que los servicios proporcionados por el programa Welcome Back son unicamente
para Medicos Graduados en el extranjero y profesionales en el sector salud que actualmente residen/viven en
California. Entiendo que cualquier información con respecto a un curso o programa en desarrollo o actualmente
implementado por el programa Welcome Back y facilitado por una institución educativa, debe ser confirmada por la
administración o por el personal apropiado de esa institución educativa. Entiendo que cualquier información con
respecto a los programas o cursos en particular esta sujeta a cambios.
Confidencialidad
Como participante en el San Diego Welcome Back Center, un programa de Grossmont College, usted tiene un
derecho legal a la confidencialidad de su expediente. Con la excepción de lo que la ley requiere, ninguna
información que usted nos provea será divulgada por el centro sin su permiso de antemano y por escrito. Toda
información que usted provea al San Diego Welcome Back Center será considerada confidencial.
Comunicación
Yo otorgo mi consentimiento al personal del Centro Bienvenidos de San Diego, para que he provehido al Centro
Bienvenidos de San Diego en el perfil referido como “Primer Hoja De Contacto”. Entiendo y apruebo que el Centro
Bienvenidos de San Diego me envie correos electronicos/correo regular o me llame por telefono para proveerme
información referente a programas, cursos, proyectos, acontecimientos, reuniones, seminarios y cualquier otras
actividades que organizadas por el Centro Bienvenidos de San Diego.
Evaluación del Programa
Entiendo que el San Diego Welcome Back Center está participando en una evaluación a nivel estatal. La evaluación
pretende entender el número de inmigrantes que son profesionales en el sector salud, cuales son sus profesiones y
cuales han sido las barreras que han experimentado al tratar de ejercer sus profesiones. El centro también quiere
evaluar los servicios que ha prestado. Entiendo que cualquier información utilizada como parte de la evaluación y/o
cualquier reporte no utilizará nombres ni alguna otra información que pueda identificarme.
Como bajo firmante, entiendo completamente y apruebo las declaraciones antes mencionadas:
___________________________________________
Firma del Participante
__________________________________
Firma del Welcome Back ECM/ECMA
_________________________________________
Favor escribir CLARAMENTE su NOMBRE COMPLETO
__________________________________
Nombre del Welcome Back ECM/ECMA
___________________
Fecha
___________________
Fecha
58