Indivdual Specific Medical Eval Forms (16) 07132012

Peace Corps -- Office of Medical Services

Individual Specific Medical Evaluation Forms (16):

Allergy Treatment Form (PC-262-1) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Asthma Evaluation Form (PC-262-2) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Diabetes Diagnosis Form (PC-262-3) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Disease Diagnosis Form (PC-262-5) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Low Body Mass Index Evaluation Form (PC-262-4) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Mental Health Treatment Summary Form (TG-510-3) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Eating Disorder Treatment Summary Form (PC-262-8) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Mental Health Current Evaluation Form (TG-510-2) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Alcohol/Substance Abuse Current Evaluation Form (PC-262-6) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Insulin Dependent Supplemental Documentation Form (PC-262-10) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Mammogram Form (TG-355-2) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Pap Screening Form (PC-262-11) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Colon Cancer Screening Form (PC-262-9) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

ECG Form (PC-262-7) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Reactive Tuberculin Test Evaluation Form (PC-262-12) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

Prescription for Eyeglasses Form (PC-OMS-116) - OMB Control No. 0420-xxxx

SUPPORTING STATEMENT

Section A. Justification

1. The Peace Corps Act states that “[t]he President may enroll in the Peace Corps for service abroad qualified citizens and nationals of the United States (referred to in this Act as “volunteers”). The terms and conditions of the enrollment … of volunteers shall be exclusively those set forth in this Act and those consistent therewith which the President may prescribe …” 22 U.S.C. 2504(a). Eligibility requirements for the Peace Corps have been prescribed in 22 C.F.R. Part 305. Among those eligibility requirements is one relating to medical status. An Applicant “must, with reasonable accommodation, have the physical and mental capacity required of a Volunteer to perform the essential functions of the Peace Corps Volunteer assignment for which he or she is otherwise eligible and be able to complete an agreed upon tour of service, ordinarily two years, without undue disruption due to health problems.” 22 C.F.R. 305.2(c). All applicants for service must undergo a physical examination and a dental evaluation prior to Volunteer service to determine if they meet this medical status eligibility requirement. In addition, under 22 U.S.C. 2504(e), the Peace Corps provides medical care to Volunteers during their service and the information collected will also be used in connection with medical care and treatment during Peace Corps service for applicants who become Volunteers. Finally, the information collected may serve as a point of reference for any potential future Volunteer worker’s compensation claims.¹

Volunteers serve in 67 developing countries where western-style healthcare is often not available. Volunteers are placed in remote locations where they may suffer hardship because they have no access to running water and/or electricity. They also may be placed in locations with extreme environmental conditions related to cold, heat or high altitude and they may be exposed to diseases not generally found in the U.S. Volunteers may be placed many hours from the Peace Corps medical office and not have easy access to any health care provider. Therefore, a thorough review of an Applicant’s past medical history is an essential first step to determine their suitability for service in Peace Corps.

The current process requires almost all Applicants to undergo a costly and time consuming full medical evaluation. Under the current process, it sometimes happens that after an Applicant has spent large amounts of time and money, the Peace Corps finds that the Applicant is not medically qualified to serve. In 2012, the Peace Corps will change the current process in order to reduce the time and expense of Applicants and to ensure that only those who accept an invitation to serve undergo a complete medical evaluation. However, Applicants who have certain particularly difficult to accommodate conditions will be evaluated early in the process. This will reduce the time and expense for those Applicants who would, even with reasonable accommodation, not be likely to be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems.

Under the new system, the Applicant will begin the medical part of the application process by completing a comprehensive Health History Horm, covered under OMB control number 0420-0510. After completion of the Health History Form and after passing preliminary non-health-related assessments, the Applicant will be “nominated” to a program. This nomination does not guarantee an invitation to serve, but it does hold a place so the Applicant may proceed with the process. After a review by the Peace Corps pre-service medical staff of the Health History Form and any supplemental forms (covered under this OMB control number) that the Applicant is required to submit following nomination, the Applicant may be medically pre-cleared. An Applicant who is medically pre-cleared and who accepts an invitation to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer undergoes a final medical clearance. Final medical clearance is on the basis of a complete physical examination, as documented in a Report of Physical Examination, covered under OMB control number 0420-XXXX.

The forms covered by this Supporting Statement may be sent to an individual Applicant at one of the following times in the medical review process: (1) after the Applicant completes the Health History Form and receives a nomination; (2) after a Peace Corps nurse reviews the Applicant’s Health History Form and any completed forms previously requested; or (3) at the time of the Applicant’s physical examination. The results of the physical examination and the information contained in the specific evaluation forms covered by this Supporting Statement will be used to make an individualized determination as to whether an Applicant for Volunteer service will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems.

If, based on the Applicant’s responses on the Health History Form, additional information is required in order to make an individualized determination as to whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems, then one or more of the forms listed below may be sent to the Applicant.

The Allergy Treatment Form: When an Applicant reports that he or she is currently receiving allergy shot treatments, Peace Corps provides the Applicant with an Allergy Treatment Form for his or her treating physician to complete. The Peace Corps is not able to arrange for Volunteers to receive allergy shots during their Peace Corps service. Peace Corps Volunteers generally serve in areas that are isolated and have limited access to Western-trained providers and health care systems. The Applicant completes the form after discussing with his or her physician whether the Applicant will be able to live overseas for 27 months of Peace Corps service without receiving allergy shots. The Applicant is required to certify that the Applicant has discussed stopping allergy shots with his or her physician and that the physician agrees that the allergy shots can be stopped without unreasonable risk of substantial harm to the Applicant’s health.

The Asthma Evaluation Form: When an Applicant reports on the Health History Form symptoms of moderate persistent or severe persistent asthma in the past two years, he or she will be provided an Asthma Evaluation Form for the treating physician to complete. The determination of whether the reported symptoms indicate moderate persistent or severe persistent asthma is based on recognized classifications of asthma severity. The Asthma Evaluation Form asks for the physician to document the Applicant’s condition of asthma, including any asthma symptoms, triggers, treatments, or limitations or restrictions due to the condition, as well as to certify that the Applicant can safely serve 27 months overseas. This form will be used as the basis for an individualized determination as to whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems. This form will also be used to determine the type of accommodation that may be needed, such as placement of the Applicant within reasonable proximity to a hospital in case treatment is needed for a severe asthma attack.

The Diabetes Diagnosis Form: When an Applicant reports the condition of diabetes Type 1 on the Health History Form, the Applicant will be provided a Diabetes Diagnosis Form for the treating physician to complete. In certain cases, the Applicant may also be asked to have the treating physician complete a Diabetes Diagnosis Form if the Applicant reports the condition of diabetes Type 2 on the Health History Form. The Diabetes Diagnosis Form asks the physician to document the diabetes diagnosis, etiology, possible complications, and treatment, as well as to certify that the Applicant can safely serve 27 months overseas. This form will be used as the basis for an individualized determination as to whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems. This form will also be used to determine the the type of accommodation that may be needed, such as placement of an Applicant who requires the use of insulin in order to ensure that adequate insulin storage facilities are available at the Applicant’s site.

The Disease Diagnosis Form: When an Applicant reports on the Health History Form a medical condition of significant severity (other than one covered by another form), he or she may be provided a Disease Diagnosis Form for the treating physician to complete. The Disease Diagnosis Form may also be provided to an Applicant whose responses on the Health History Form indicate that the Applicant may have an unstable medical condition that requires ongoing treatment. The Disease Diagnosis Form asks the physician to document the diagnosis, etiology, possible complications and treatment, as well as to certify that the Applicant can safely serve 27 months overseas. This form will be used as the basis for an individualized determination as to whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems. This form will also be used to determine the type of accommodation that may be needed, such as placement of an Applicant to take account of the Applicant’s medical condition (e.g., avoidance of high altitudes or proximity to a hospital).

The Low Body Mass Index Evaluation Form: When an Applicant reports a height and weight on the Health History Form consistent with a body mass index (BMI) that is below 17 for women and 18 for men, the Applicant will be provided a Low Body Mass Index Evaluation Form for a physician to complete. The Low Body Mass Index Evaluation Form asks the physician to indicate whether the Applicant’s low BMI is indicative of any condition which could be exacerbated during Peace Corps service. This form will be used as the basis for an individualized determination as to whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems. Based on the information on the completed form, the Peace Corps may determine that further medical assessments are required.

If the Applicant reports on the Health History Form a mental health condition for which the Applicant received mental health counseling or for which the Applicant experienced a symptom that lasted longer than two weeks and that affected the Applicant’s ability to fully engage in daily activities (regardless of whether the Applicant received mental health counseling), the Applicant may receive one or more of the forms below.

The Mental Health Treatment Summary Form will be used when an Applicant reports on the Health History Form a history of certain serious mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, mental health hospitalization, attempted suicide or cutting, or treatments or medications related to these conditions. In these cases, an Applicant will be provided a Mental Health Treatment Summary Form for a licensed mental health counselor, psychiatrist or psychologist to complete. The Mental Health Treatment Summary Form asks the counselor, psychiatrist or psychologist to document the dates and frequency of therapy sessions, clinical diagnoses, symptoms, course of treatment, psychotropic medications, mental health history, level of functioning, prognosis, risk of exacerbation or recurrence while overseas, recommendations for follow up and any concerns that would prevent the Applicant from completing 27 months of service without undue disruption. This form will be used as the basis for an individualized determination as to whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems. This form will also be used to determine the type of accommodation that may be needed, such as placement of the Applicant in a country with appropriate mental health support.

The Eating Disorder Treatment Summary Form will be used when an Applicant reports a past or current eating disorder diagnosis in the Health History Form. In these cases the Applicant is provided an Eating Disorder Treatment Summary Form for a mental health specialist, preferably with eating disorder training, to complete. The Eating Disorder Treatment Summary Form asks the mental health specialist to document the dates and frequency of therapy sessions, clinical diagnoses, presenting problems and precipitating factors, symptoms, Applicant’s weight over the past three years, relevant family history, course of treatment, psychotropic medications, mental health history inclusive of eating disorder behaviors, level of functioning, prognosis, risk of recurrence in a stressful overseas environment, recommendations for follow up, and any concerns that would prevent the Applicant from completing 27 months of service without undue disruption due to the diagnosis. This form will be used as the basis for an individualized determination as to whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems. This form will also be used to determine the type of accommodation that may be needed, such as placement of the Applicant in a country with appropriate mental health support.

After a nurse reviews the Mental Health Treatment Summary Form or the Eating Disorder Treatment Summary Form, as the case may be, or if the Applicant reports a past or current diagnosis of alcohol or substance abuse, a mental health professional will be consulted. If, on the basis of this consultation, it is determined that there is a need for a more current evaluation, one of the following forms (depending on the diagnosis) will be provided to the Applicant for a mental health professional to complete.

The Mental Health Current Evaluation Form is used when an Applicant reports a mental health condition in the Health History Form and it is determined that a current mental health evaluation is needed. A current mental health evaluation might be needed if information on the condition is out-dated or previous reports on the condition do not provide enough information to adequately assess the current status of the condition. In these cases, the Applicant will be provided a Mental Health Current Evaluation Form for a licensed mental health counselor, psychiatrist or psychologist to complete over one to three evaluation sessions. The Mental Health Current Evaluation Form asks the mental health professional to document the clinical diagnoses, presenting symptoms, risk of recurrence in a stressful overseas environment, coping strategies, evaluation of overall functioning, psychotropic medications, current psychological tests administered, recommendations for follow up, and any concerns that would prevent the Applicant from completing 27 months of service without undue disruption due to the diagnosis. This form will be used as the basis for an individualized determination as to whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems. This form will also be used to determine the type of accommodation that may be needed, such as placement of the Applicant in a country with appropriate mental health support.

The Alcohol/Substance Abuse Current Evaluation Form is used when an Applicant reports in the Health History Form a history of substance abuse (i.e., alcohol or drug related problems such as blackouts, daily or heavy drinking patterns or the misuse of illegal or prescription drugs) and that this substance abuse affects the Applicant’s daily living or that the Applicant has ongoing symptoms of substance abuse. In these cases, the Applicant is provided an Alcohol/Substance Abuse Current Evaluation Form for a substance abuse specialist to complete. The Alcohol/Substance Abuse Current Evaluation Form asks the substance abuse specialist to document the history of alcohol/substance abuse, dates and frequency of any therapy sessions, which alcohol/substance abuse assessment tools were administered, mental health diagnoses, psychotropic medications, self harm behavior, current clinical assessment of alcohol/substance use, clinical observations, risk of recurrence in a stressful overseas environment, recommendations for follow up, and any concerns that would prevent the Applicant from completing 27 months of service without undue disruption due to the diagnosis. This form will be used as the basis for an individualized determination as to whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems. This form will also be used to determine the type of accommodation that may be needed, such as placement of the Applicant in a country with appropriate sobriety support or counseling support.

For those Applicants who have received invitations to serve as Peace Corps Volunteers, the following forms supplement the Report of Physical Examination and will have to be completed prior to final medical clearance.

The Mammogram Form is used with all female Applicants who will be 50 years of age or older during service to provide the Peace Corps with results of the Applicant’s latest mammogram and to record the wishes of the Applicant regarding routine mammogram screening during service. The Peace Corps uses the information in the Mammogram Form to determine if the Applicant currently has breast cancer and to ascertain whether the Applicant wishes to receive routine mammogram screening while in service. A female Applicant who wishes to receive routine mammogram screening during service will be limited to being placed in a country with mammogram screening capabilities. If the Applicant waives routine mammogram screening during service, the Applicant’s physician also completes this form in order to confirm that the physician has reviewed the Applicant’s risk factor assessment and discussed the results with the Applicant and concurs that foregoing screening mammography represents an acceptable risk.

The Pap Screening Form is used with all female Applicants. They are required to obtain a Pap examination within four months prior to their departure. This form assists the Peace Corps in determining whether a female Applicant with mildly abnormal Pap results will need to be placed in a country with appropriate Pap follow-up capabilities.

The Colon Cancer Screening Form is used with all Applicants who are 50 years of age or older to provide the Peace Corps with the results of the Applicant’s latest colon cancer screening. Any testing deemed appropriate by the American Cancer Society is accepted. The Peace Corps uses the information in the Colon Cancer Screening Form to determine if the Applicant currently has colon cancer. Additional instructions are included pertaining to abnormal test results.

The ECG Form is used with all Applicants who are 50 years of age or older to provide the Peace Corps with the results of an electrocardiogram. The Peace Corps uses the information in the electrocardiogram to assess whether the Applicant has any cardiac abnormalities that might affect the Applicant’s service. Additional instructions are included pertaining to abnormal test results. The electrocardiogram is performed as part of the Applicant’s physical examination.

The Reactive Tuberculin Test Evaluation Form is used when an Applicant reports a history of reactivity to tuberculosis skin testing or a history of BCG vaccination in the Health History Form or if a reactivity is discovered as part of the Applicant’s physical examination. In these cases, the Applicant is provided a Reactive Tuberculin Test Evaluation Form for the treating physician to complete. The treating physician is asked to document the type and date of a current TB test, TB test history, diagnostic tests if indicated, treatment history, risk assessment for developing active TB, current TB symptoms, and recommendations for further evaluation and treatment. In the case of a positive result on the TB test, a chest x-ray is also required, along with treatment for latent TB.

The Insulin Dependent Supplemental Documentation Form is used with Applicants who have reported on the Health History Form that they have insulin dependent diabetes. In these cases, the Applicant is provided an Insulin Dependent Supplemental Documentation Form for the treating physician to complete. The Insulin Dependent Supplemental Documentation Form asks the treating physician to document that he or she has discussed with the Applicant medication (insulin) management, including whether an insulin pump is required, as well as the care and maintenance of all required diabetes related monitors and equipment. This form assists the Peace Corps in determining whether the Applicant will be in need of insulin storage while in service and, if so, will assist the Peace Corps in determining an appropriate placement for the Applicant.

The Prescription for Eyeglasses Form is used with Applicants who have reported on the Health History Form that they use corrective lenses or otherwise have uncorrected vision that is worse than 20/40. In these cases, Applicants are provided a Prescription for Eyeglasses Form for their prescriber to indicate eyeglasses frame measurements, lens instructions, type of lens, gross vision and any special instructions. This form is used in order to enable the Peace Corps to obtain replacement eyeglasses for a Volunteer during service.

2. The information in these forms will be used by the Peace Corps Office of Medical Services to determine whether an Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems and, if so, to establish the level of medical and other support, if any, that may be required to reasonably accommodate the Applicant. If it is clear that there is no reasonable accommodation that will enable the Applicant to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems, the Applicant will in many cases be medically disqualified early in the application process, thus eliminating the need for the Applicant to undergo a long and costly full medical evaluation process. If the Applicant is preliminarily found to satisfy the Peace Corps’ medical status eligibility requirements, the information in these forms will be used to determine what reasonable accommodations are required, including identifying the Peace Corps posts that can support the Applicant’s particular medical needs. For those Applicants invited to serve, these forms are used as a baseline assessment for the Peace Corps Medical Officers overseas who are responsible for the Volunteer’s medical care. Finally, the Peace Corps may use the information in the forms as a point of reference in the event that, after completion of the Applicant’s service as a Volunteer, he or she makes a worker’s compensation claim under the Federal Employee Compensation Act (FECA).

Applicants’ qualifications for service are reviewed in a division of Peace Corps separate from the division that performs the medical clearance review. Those who make a judgment about whether an applicant has the skills to serve as a Volunteer do not have access to medical clearance information about the applicant. Additionally, each applicant receives an individualized assessment of his or her medical conditions. Peace Corps does not have a blanket rule excluding applicants with particular conditions. Applicants who are medically disqualified receive an explanation why they were not medically cleared, and they have the opportunity to appeal the clearance decision to the Pre-Service Review Board. Medical clearance decisions are not permanent, and applicants who are not medically cleared may reapply.

3. The Peace Corps will introduce these forms electronically as part of a larger business process improvement project. Applicants will gain access to the forms via a secure online portal. Applicants will have to download the forms for their health care providers to complete. Completed forms can be scanned and uploaded back into the Applicant’s secure Peace Corps online portal or they can be faxed or mailed to the Peace Corps Office of Medical Services. The Peace Corps anticipates that most Applicants will submit the forms electronically and that only those with no electronic access will submit a paper version.

4. There is no similar information available to the Peace Corps. These forms are the only agency forms that collect this particular information concerning an Applicant’s current allergy shots, asthma, diabetes, diseases of significant severity, low body mass, mental health, eating disorder, alcohol or other substance abuse, mammogram, Pap screening, colon cancer screening, eyeglass prescription or tuberculosis. While there are other medical forms, none of them addresses these conditions, treatments or needs with this degree of specificity. It would not make sense to combine these forms with any of the other medical forms, as the Office of Medical Services will send these forms only to those specific Applicants with a history of the particular condition or who are of a particular age and gender.

5. This collection does not impact small business or other small entities.

6. Those Applicants who have self-identified a medical condition of significant severity on the Health History Form or who are of a particular age and gender will receive one or more of the forms described above to better assess whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems and, if so, what accommodation may be needed. If the Peace Corps lacked the medical information obtained during the medical screening process, the Peace Corps would be unable to determine if such an Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems and, if so, the accommodation that is needed.

7. There are no special circumstances. Collection will be conducted consistent with 5 C.F.R. 1320.6 guidelines.

8. The agency’s 60 day notice was published in the Federal Register on January 20, 2012, 77 FR 3013. The agency’s 30 day notice was published in the Federal Register on March 27, 2012, 77 FR 18273. The agency received one comment from the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and one comment from the Department of Justice.

The EEOC expressed concern that the Peace Corps’ medical clearance process could be inconsistent with section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. The EEOC noted that section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits medical examinations of prospective employees, except that an employer may conduct a medical examination after making a conditional offer of employment. The Peace Corps’ plan, however, is to request medical information from applicants at the time they apply.

The Peace Corps explained to the EEOC that the Peace Corps Act provides that Volunteers are not employees for any purpose, subject to a few exceptions that do not apply in this context. 22 USC § 2504(a). Because Volunteers are not employees for any purpose, section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act does not apply to Peace Corps Volunteers. However, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act does apply to Peace Corps Volunteers. And, unlike section 501, section 504 does not include a prohibition against pre-selection medical examinations.

The EEOC also expressed concern that some of the medical forms’ questions about family history were contrary to the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act. The Peace Corps responded that, while GINA only applies to employees, the Peace Corps has made a policy decision to also apply it to Volunteers. Because of this and in response to the EEOC’s comments, the Peace Corps removed questions about family history from the Alcohol/Substance Abuse Current Evaluation Form, the Mental Health Treatment Summary Form, and the Eating Disorder Treatment Summary Form. However, the Peace Corps is not able to remove the family history question from the mammogram forms, as the Peace Corps depends on a National Cancer Institute algorithm that assists the Peace Corps in making judgments about whether an applicant's risk of breast cancer is significant enough that the applicant will need to be placed in one of the 60 percent of Peace Corps posts that have mammogram screening available. Such a judgment is consistent with the Peace Corps' statutory obligation to provide medical care to Volunteers.

The Peace Corps explained that it has legitimate non-discriminatory reasons for using Pap screening forms for all women, mammogram forms for all women, and colon cancer forms for all applicants over 50. The forms are used to assess medical risks that arise primarily in these groups of people. The screening standards for these groups are based on U.S. Preventive Services Task Force guidelines.

Subsequently, the Department of Justice (DOJ) submitted comments to OMB about section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. DOJ agreed with Peace Corps that because Volunteers are not employees, section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act and GINA do not apply to Volunteer applications. DOJ noted that, if Title VII and the ADEA do apply to Volunteers, the Peace Corps would have to demonstrate that the need for the Pap screening form, the mammogram forms, and the colon cancer forms is related to bona fide occupational qualifications reasonably necessary to the Peace Corps’ normal operation. The Peace Corps explained to DOJ that this is the case.

DOJ agreed that the Peace Corps’ request for medical information before making a conditional offer to applicants is not prohibited by section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

The Peace Corps explained to DOJ and OMB, as it had with the EEOC, that a recruiter who makes judgments about an applicant’s non-medical qualifications has no access to an applicant’s medical information. DOJ recommended that the Peace Corps inform applicants of this fact and the Peace Corps advised OMB after the call that it would do so at the time that applicants receive their Health History Forms to complete.

9. No payment or gift is provided to Applicants applying for Peace Corps service. However, under 22 U.S.C. 2504(e), “applicants for enrollment shall receive such health examinations preparatory to their service … as the President may deem necessary or appropriate.” In accordance with the authority provided in 22 U.S.C. 2504(e), the Peace Corps reimburses Applicants for some of the expenses that they incur for medical examinations that they undergo in connection with the Peace Corps Volunteer application process. This reimbursement is subject to overall limits and may not cover all costs incurred by the Applicant in connection with the medical evaluation. As there are different requirements for medical evaluations based on gender and age, the reimbursement limits vary based on those factors:

Females under 50 may be reimbursed up to $165

Females 50 and older may be reimbursed up to $290

Males under 50 may be reimbursed up to $125

Males 50 and older may be reimbursed up to $175

In addition, Applicants are reimbursed only to the extent that they are not otherwise reimbursed by their insurance companies. Peace Corps is seeking Paperwork Reduction Act approval for these forms.

10. Applicants are informed that the medical information they provide will be maintained in accordance with the Privacy Act. Applicant medical records are included in a sub-system of the Peace Corps’ Privacy Act System of Records: Volunteer Applicant and Service Records System (PC-17). The collection and storage of this information also complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The Peace Corps’ internal rules ensure the confidential protection of medical information consistent with the Privacy Act and HIPAA. Applicants are informed of their rights under HIPAA before completing the forms.

11. Questions of a sensitive nature are asked solely from a medical perspective and the information gathered is used to determine whether the Applicant will, with reasonable accommodation, be able to perform the essential functions of a Peace Corps Volunteer and complete a tour of service without undue disruption due to health problems. This information also assists the Peace Corps in determining what is needed in order to provide adequate medical support to the Applicant during service. Peace Corps Volunteers serve in countries that have a different healthcare infrastructure than that found in the United States. Therefore, it is essential to fully understand each Applicant’s complete medical history, treatments and response to treatment, as well as a baseline evaluation of all conditions. Failure to answer truthfully could result in disqualification from Peace Corps service. The Peace Corps complies with the medical confidentiality requirements of the Privacy Act and HIPAA. However, all Applicants are required, as a condition of processing their applications and of Peace Corps service, to sign an Authorization for Peace Corps Use of Medical Information under which the Applicant permits the Peace Corps to use the Applicant’s protected health information to determine the Applicant’s eligibility for the Peace Corps and as necessary for administration of the Peace Corps program.

12. Estimates of hour burden:

Allergy Treatment Form

Based on the number of Applicants in previous years who reported receiving allergy shots, it is estimated that 100 Applicants who have been nominated for service each year will currently be receiving immunotherapy for the treatment of allergies (i.e., allergy shots) and therefore will receive this form to complete.

The Applicant will complete the form following a discussion with the Applicant’s physician regarding the risk to the Applicant of stopping allergy shots during 27 months of Peace Corps service. It is anticipated that the Applicant will have this discussion with the physician at the time that the Applicant goes to the physician’s office for regularly scheduled allergy shots.

Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 10 minutes. It is estimated that it will take 10 minutes for the Applicant to have a discussion with the physician and to complete the form.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to each Applicant completing the information on this form, inclusive of the associated paperwork retrieval and return is therefore 20 minutes. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant’s physician completing the information on this form is 10 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all physicians and Applicants completing the information on this form is 16.7 hours of physician time (100 Applicants x 10 minutes) and 33.3 hours of Applicant time (100 Applicants x 20 minutes).

Asthma Evaluation Form

In fiscal year 2010, the Office of Medical Services sent 1,045 Asthma forms to Applicants who reported symptoms of asthma. However, only Applicants with moderate persistent or severe persistent asthma, which is about 50% of those with symptoms of asthma, will receive the new Asthma Evaluation Form. Therefore, it is estimated that 500 Applicants who have been nominated for service will receive the Asthma Evaluation Form each year.

It is anticipated that the Applicant will arrange for the form to be completed by the Applicant’s physician by bringing the form to the physician’s office for completion and waiting for the physician to complete the form (and, if necessary, being examined by the physician). Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the physician’s office and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the physician office of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. It is estimated that it will take both the Applicant and the physician 30 minutes for the office visit, during which the Applicant will be examined by the physician (if necessary) and the physician will complete the form. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant completing the information on this form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the physician, being examined by the physician (if necessary) and waiting for the physician to complete the form and the associated paperwork retrieval and return, is therefore 1 hour 15 minutes. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant’s physician completing the information on this form is 30 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all physicians and Applicants completing the information on this form is 250 hours of physician time (500 Applicants x 30 minutes) and 625 hours of Applicant time (500 Applicants x 75 minutes).

Diabetes Diagnosis Form

In fiscal year 2010, the Office of Medical Services sent 36 diabetes forms to Applicants who reported diabetes Type 1 or Type 2. It is estimated that, under the new clearance process, the same number of Applicants who have been nominated for service will be required to complete the Diabetes Diagnosis Form each year.

Many of the Applicants who report diabetes in their health histories will need to see a physician to complete the Diabetes Diagnosis Form. It is anticipated that the Applicant will arrange for the form to be completed by the Applicant’s physician by bringing the form to the physician’s office for completion and waiting for the physician to complete the form (and, if necessary, being examined by the physician). Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the physician’s office and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the physician office of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. It is estimated that it will take both the Applicant and the physician 30 minutes for the office visit, during which the Applicant will be examined by the physician (if necessary) and the physician will complete the form. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant completing the information on this form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the physician, being examined by the physician (if necessary) and waiting for the physician to complete the form and the associated paperwork retrieval and return, is therefore 1 hour 15 minutes. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant’s physician completing the information on this form is 30 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all physicians and Applicants completing the information on this form is 18 hours of physician time (36 Applicants x 30 minutes) and 45 hours of Applicant time (36 Applicants x 75 minutes).

Disease Diagnosis Form

Based on the number of Applicants in previous years who reported a medical condition of significant severity (other than one covered by another form), it is estimated that 400 Applicants who have been nominated for service will receive this form each year.

It is anticipated that the Applicant will arrange for the form to be completed by the Applicant’s physician by bringing the form to the physician’s office for completion and waiting for the physician to complete the form (and, if necessary, being examined by the physician). Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the physician’s office and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the physician office of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. It is estimated that it will take both the Applicant and the physician 30 minutes for the office visit, during which the Applicant will be examined by the physician (if necessary) and the physician will complete the form. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant completing the information on this form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the physician, being examined by the physician (if necessary) and waiting for the physician to complete the form and the associated paperwork retrieval and return, is therefore 1 hour 15 minutes. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant’s physician completing the information on this form is 30 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all physicians and Applicants completing the information on this form is 200 hours of physician time (400 Applicants x 30 minutes) and 500 hours of Applicant time (400 Applicants x 75 minutes).

Low Body Mass Index Evaluation Form

Based on numbers from previous years, it is estimated that 50 Applicants who have been nominated for service each year will have a body mass index of less than 17 for women or 18 for men and will therefore receive the Low Body Mass Index Evaluation Form.

Applicants who are significantly underweight will need to see a physician to complete the Low Body Mass Index Evaluation Form. It is anticipated that the Applicant will arrange for the form to be completed by the Applicant’s physician by bringing the form to the physician’s office for completion, being examined by the physician and waiting for the physician to complete the form. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the physician’s office and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the physician office of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. It is estimated that it will take both the Applicant and the physician 60 minutes for the office visit, during which the Applicant will be examined by the physician and the physician will complete the form. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant completing the information on this form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the physician, being examined by the physician (if necessary) and waiting for the physician to complete the form and the associated paperwork retrieval and return, is therefore 1 hour 45 minutes. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant’s physician completing the information on this form is 1 hour.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all physicians and Applicants completing the information on this form is 50 hours of physician time (50 Applicants x 60 minutes) and 87.5 hours of Applicant time (50 Applicants x 105 minutes).

Mental Health Treatment Summary Form

Last year, approximately 150 Applicants reported a history of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, mental health hospitalization, attempted suicide, cutting or another serious mental health condition, treatment or medication. It is therefore estimated that 150 Applicants who have been nominated for service each year will receive a Mental Health Treatment Summary Form.

The Applicant will need to see a mental health professional to complete the Mental Health Treatment Summary Form. It is anticipated that the Applicant will arrange for the form to be completed by the mental health professional by bringing the form to the mental health professional’s office for completion and waiting for the mental health professional to complete the form (and, if necessary, being examined by the mental health professional ). Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the mental health professional’s office and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the mental health professional’s office of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. It is estimated that it will take both the Applicant and the mental health professional 60 minutes for the office visit, during which the Applicant will be examined by the mental health professional (if necessary) and the mental health professional will complete the form. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant completing the information on this form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the mental health professional, being examined by the mental health professional (if necessary) and waiting for the mental health professional to complete the form and the associated paperwork retrieval and return, is therefore 1 hour 45 minutes. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each mental health professional completing the information on this form is 1 hour.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all mental health professionals and Applicants completing the information on this form is 150 hours of mental health professional time (150 Applicants x 60 minutes) and 262.5 hours of Applicant time (150 Applicants x 105 minutes).

Eating Disorder Treatment Summary Form

Last year, 232 Applicants reported a past or current eating disorder diagnosis. Based on this, it is estimated that 232 Applicants who has been nominated for service each year will receive an Eating Disorder Treatment Summary Form.

It is anticipated that the Applicant will arrange for the form to be completed by the mental health professional by bringing the form to the mental health professional’s office for completion and either waiting for the mental health professional to complete the form or completing the form jointly with the mental health professional. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the mental health professional’s office and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the mental health professional’s office of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. It is estimated that it will take both the Applicant and the mental health professional 60 minutes for the office visit, during which the mental health professional will complete the form either alone or jointly with the Applicant. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant completing the information on this form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the mental health professional , being examined by the mental health professional (if necessary) and waiting for the mental health professional to complete the form and the associated paperwork retrieval and return, is therefore 1 hour 45 minutes. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each mental health professional completing the information on this form is 1 hour.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all mental health professionals and Applicants completing the information on this form is 232 hours of mental health professional time (232 Applicants x 60 minutes) and 406 hours of Applicant time (232 Applicants x 105 minutes).

Mental Health Current Evaluation Form

Last year, a current mental health evaluation was required for 439 Applicants before their applications moved forward. Based on this, it is estimated that 439 Applicants who have been nominated for service each year will receive the Mental Health Current Evaluation Form.

The Applicant will need to attend up to three sessions with a mental health professional in order for the mental health professional to obtain the information needed to complete the form. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 10 minutes and that the average driving time to and from the mental health professional’s office for each of three sessions will be 35 minutes. Each session will last 50 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes required by the mental health professional to complete paperwork associated with the session.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to each Applicant of completing the information on this form is 4 hours 25 minutes. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each mental health professional of completing the information on this form is 3 hours.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all mental health professionals and Applicants completing the information on this form is 1,317 hours of mental health professional time (439 Applicants x 180 minutes) and 1,939 hours of Applicant time (439 Applicants x 265 minutes).

Alcohol/Substance Abuse Evaluation Form

Last year, 161 Applicants reported a history of substance abuse. Since only those Applicants who report that their daily living is affected by substance abuse or who report ongoing symptoms of substance abuse will receive the Alcohol/Substance Abuse Evaluation Form, it is estimated that 100 Applicants who have been nominated for service each year will receive the Alcohol/Substance Abuse Evaluation Form.

The Applicant will need to meet with a substance abuse specialist to complete the Alcohol/Substance Abuse Evaluation Form. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the substance abuse specialist’s office and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the mental health professional’s office of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. The office visit should require no more than 60 minutes for the substance abuse specialist to meet with the Applicant and complete the form. It is estimated the Applicant will require another 60 minutes to write the personal statement and gather references required by the form.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to each Applicant of completing the information on this form is 2 hours 45 minutes. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each substance abuse specialist of completing the information on this form is 1 hour.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to substance abuse specialists and Applicants completing the information on this form is 100 hours of addiction specialist time (100 Applicants x 60 minutes) and 275 hours of Applicant time (100 Applicants x 165 minutes).

Mammogram Form

Last year, 224 female Applicants 50 years of age or older accepted an invitation to serve in the Peace Corps. It is estimated that the same number of Applicants will receive the Mammogram Form each year.

If the Applicant has not had a recent mammogram, the Applicant will need to have a mammogram in order to complete the form. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the facility where the mammogram is performed and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the facility of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. It is estimated that it will take the Applicant 60 minutes for the mammogram.

In addition, if the Applicant waives routine mammogram screening while in service, the Applicant will need to see a physician to complete the form. It is anticipated that this part of the form will be completed when the Applicant goes to a physician for the required physical examination. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant completing the information on this form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the facility where the mammogram is performed (if necessary) and the associated paperwork retrieval and return, is therefore 1 hour 45 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all Applicants obtaining a mammogram, getting the result and completing the form is 392 hours (224 Applicants x 105 minutes).

Pap Screening Form

Last year, 2,695 female Applicants accepted an invitation to serve in the Peace Corps. It is estimated that the same number of Applicants will receive the Pap Screening Form each year.

It is anticipated that the information for this form will be completed when the Applicant goes to a physician for the required physical examination. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 10 minutes. Because the screening will take place at the same time as the physical examination, there is no additional driving time required. The Pap screening itself is estimated to take 15 minutes for both the Applicant and the physician.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to each Applicant of completing the information on this form is therefore 25 minutes. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each physician of completing the information on this form is 15 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all physicians and Applicants completing the information on this form is 674 hours of physician time (2,695 Applicants x 15 minutes) and 1,123 hours of Applicant time (2,695 Applicants x 25 minutes).

Colon Cancer Screening Form

Last year, 354 Applicants 50 years of age or older accepted an invitation to serve. It is estimated that the same number of Applicants will receive the Colon Cancer Screening Form each year.

If the Applicant has not had recent colon cancer screening in accordance with American Cancer Society recommendations, the Applicant will need to have colon cancer screening in order to complete the form. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the facility where the colon cancer screening is performed and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the facility of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. It is estimated that it will take the Applicant between 15 minutes and 2 hours for the colon cancer screening to be completed depending on which type of screening is performed. The estimate of the total annual hour burden to each Applicant completing the information on this form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the facility where the colon cancer screening is performed (if necessary) and the associated paperwork retrieval and return, is therefore between 1 hour and 2 hours 45 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden range to all Applicants obtaining colon cancer screening, getting the result and completing the form is between 354 hours (354 Applicants x 60 minutes) and 973.5 hours (354 Applicants x 165 minutes).

ECG Form

Last year, 354 Applicants 50 years of age or older accepted an invitation to serve. It is estimated that the same number of Applicants will receive the ECG Form each year.

It is anticipated that this form will be completed when the Applicant goes to a physician for the required physical examination. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 10 minutes. Because the screening will take place at the same time as the physical examination, there is no additional driving time required. The electrocardiogram itself is estimated to take 15 minutes for both the Applicant and the physician. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each Applicant of completing the information on this form is therefore 25 minutes. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each physician of completing the information on this form is 15 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all physicians and Applicants completing the information on this form is 88.5 hours of physician time (354 Applicants x 15 minutes) and 147.5 hours of Applicant time (354 Applicants x 25 minutes).

Reactive Tuberculin Test Evaluation Form

Last year, 352 Applicants reported a history of reactivity to tuberculosis skin testing or a history of BCG vaccination or had a reactivity discovered as part of their physical examination. It is estimated that the same number of Applicants will receive the Reactive Tuberculin Test Evaluation Form each year.

All Applicants will need to see a health professional to complete the form. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the health professional’s office and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the health professional’s office of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. Office visits should require no more than 30 minutes in order for the treating health professional to review the results with the Applicant and complete the form. In the event of a positive TB test, it is estimated the Applicant would need another 30 minutes for a chest x-ray. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each Applicant returning this completed form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the medical office visit and the associated paperwork retrieval and return is therefore 75 minutes to 105 minutes. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each health professional of completing the information on this form is 30 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all health professionals and Applicants completing the information on this form is 176 hours of health professional time (352 Applicants x 30 minutes) and between 440 hours (352 Applicants x 75 minutes) and 616 hours (352 Applicants x 105 minutes) of Applicant time.

Insulin Dependent Supplemental Documentation Form

Last year, 8 Applicants who accepted an invitation to serve reported being insulin dependent. It is estimated that the same number of Applicants will receive the Insulin Dependent Supplemental Documentation Form each year.

It is anticipated that this form will be completed when the Applicant goes to a physician for the required physical examination. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 10 minutes. Because the form will be completed at the same time as the physical examination, there is no additional driving time required. Completion of the form is estimated to take no longer than 60 minutes additional time for both the Applicant and the physician. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each Applicant returning this completed form is therefore 70 minutes. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each physician completing the information on this form is 60 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all physicians and Applicants completing the information on this form is 8 hours of physician time (8 Applicants x 60 minutes) and 9.3 hours of Applicant time (8 Applicants x 70 minutes).

Prescription for Eyeglasses Form

Last year, approximately 3,800Applicants accepted an invitation to serve. It is estimated that approximately 64% of applicants will have a history of using corrective lenses or will otherwise have uncorrected vision that is worse than 20/40. It is therefore estimated that 2,432 Applicants will receive the Prescription for Eyeglasses Form each year.

All Applicants with corrective lenses will need to see a prescriber to complete the form. Based on phone interviews with nine current Peace Corps applicants undergoing the medical evaluation process, it is estimated that the time associated with the Applicant downloading the form, driving to and from the prescriber’s office and scanning and uploading, faxing or mailing the completed form will be 45 minutes. This is made up of an average driving time to and from the prescriber’s office of 35 minutes and an additional 10 minutes to download the form and to scan and upload, fax or mail the completed form to the Peace Corps. Office visits should require no more than 15 minutes in order for the prescriber and Applicant to complete the form. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each Applicant returning this completed form, inclusive of the time to go to and from the medical office visit and the associated paperwork retrieval and return is therefore 60 minutes. The estimate of total annual hour burden to each prescriber of completing the information on this form is 15 minutes.

The estimate of total annual hour burden to all prescribers and Applicants completing the information on this form is 608 hours of prescriber time (2,432 Applicants x 15 minutes) and 4,256 hours of Applicant time (2,432 Applicants x 105 minutes).

13. The estimate of total annual cost burden to Applicant respondents resulting from collection of the information in these forms is the total costs of all medical exams that go beyond the maximum Peace Corps reimbursement, which is discussed in response to question 9. The Peace Corps is unable to estimate this overall cost due to the variety of fees that physicians and other health professionals charge and due to the unknown value of insurance reimbursements.

14. Estimated annual cost to the Federal Government: There is no start-up cost associated with these forms. They are inseparable from the costs that Peace Corps reported in its recent justification for the Health History Form for which Peace Corps submitted a justification to OMB on January 30, 2012. The estimated costs below reflect the additional time needed to review the information in these forms over and above the time needed to review other medical information collected from the Applicant in the Health History Form and the Report of Physical Examination. Due to the fact that conditions may require a mental health professional review as well as nurse review, both of these review times are captured.

For those Applicants who become Volunteers, the information in these forms will also be used by Peace Corps Medical Officers overseas in providing medical care during the Volunteer’s service. The costs associated with the receipt and review of this information is indeterminate based on the wide range of Peace Corps Medical Officer hourly rates and the time associated with review of the medical reports in individual cases. It is understood that this is part of an everyday job requirement for all the Peace Corps Medical Officers in the field and reviewing these forms in no way increases the costs to the Federal Government. If Peace Corps Medical Officer did not have the information in these forms, they would have to acquire the information through some other means, which would add to their daily workload.

With the exception of the Allergy Treatment Form which is reviewed only by a nurse, the remaining forms are reviewed by a nurse, who then consults with a physician or mental health professional. Pre-service Nurses are on the FS-4 pay scale but each has a different pay step depending on experience. For this reason, we are using the mid-range FS-4 hourly rate of $36 an hour, which is $46 an hour with benefit costs included. Physicians and mental health professionals are paid at the FS-1 pay scale with a mid-range rate of $68 an hour, which is $86 an hour with benefit costs included.

Allergy Treatment Form

It is estimated that 100 Applicants will be required to complete this form and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 10 minutes to review the information. A physician is not required to review this form. The estimate of total annual burden to Peace Corps is $767 (100 Applicants x 10 minutes at $46/hour)

Asthma Evaluation Form

It is estimated that 500 Applicants will be required to complete this form with a physician and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 45 minutes to review the information, including 15 minutes for consulting with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $17,250 (500 Applicants x 45 minutes x $46/hr) . The estimated cost for the consulting physician is $10,750 (500 Applicants x 15 min x $86/hr). The estimate of total annual burden to the Peace Corps resulting from collection of this information is $28,000.

Diabetes Diagnosis Form

It is estimated that 36 Applicants will be required to complete this form with a physician and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 45 minutes to review the information, including 15 minutes for consulting with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $1,242 (36 Applicants x 45 minutes x $46/hr) . The estimated cost for the consulting physician is $774 (36 Applicants x 15 min x $86/hr). The estimate of total annual burden to the Peace Corps resulting from collection of this information is $2,016.

Disease Diagnosis Form

It is estimated that 400 Applicants will be required to complete this form with a physician and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 45 minutes to review the information, including 15 minutes for consulting with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $13,800 (400 Applicants x 45 minutes x $46/hr) . The estimated cost for the consulting physician is $8,600 (400 Applicants x 15 min x $86/hr). The estimate of total annual burden to the Peace Corps resulting from collection of this information is $22,400.

Low Body Mass Index Evaluation Form

It is estimated that 50 Applicants will be required to complete this form with a physician and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 45 minutes to review the information, including 15 minutes for consulting with a physician or mental health professional. The estimated cost for nurse review is $1,725 (50 Applicants x 45 minutes x $46/hr) . The estimated cost for the consulting physician or mental health professional is $1,075 (50 Applicants x 15 min x $86/hr). The estimate of total annual burden to the Peace Corps resulting from collection of this information is $2,800.

Mental Health Treatment Summary Form

It is estimated that 150 Applicants will be required to complete this form with a mental health professional and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 45 minutes to review the information, including 15 minutes for consulting with a mental health professional. The estimated cost for nurse review is $5,175 (150 Applicants x 45 minutes x $46/hr) . The estimated cost for the consulting mental health professional is $3,225 (150 Applicants x 15 min x $86/hr). The estimate of total annual burden to the Peace Corps resulting from collection of this information is $8,400.

Eating Disorder Treatment Summary Form

It is estimated that 232 Applicants will be required to complete this form with a mental health professional and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 45 minutes to review the information, including 15 minutes for consulting with a mental health professional. The estimated cost for nurse review is $8,004 (232 Applicants x 45 minutes x $46/hr) . The estimated cost for the consulting mental health professional is $4,988 (232 Applicants x 15 min x $86/hr). The estimate of total annual burden to the Peace Corps resulting from collection of this information is $12,992.

Mental Health Current Evaluation Form

It is estimated that 439 Applicants will be required to complete this form with a mental health professional and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 45 minutes to review the information, including 15 minutes for consulting with a mental health professional. The estimated cost for nurse review is $15,145.50 (439 Applicants x 45 minutes x $46/hr) . The estimated cost for the consulting mental health professional is $9,438.50 (439 Applicants x 15 min x $86/hr). The estimate of total annual burden to the Peace Corps resulting from collection of this information is $24,584.

Alcohol/Substance Abuse Current Evaluation Form

It is estimated that 100 Applicants will be required to complete this form with a substance abuse specialist and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 45 minutes to review the information, including 15 minutes for consulting with a mental health professional. The estimated cost for nurse review is $3,450 (100 Applicants x 45 minutes x $46/hr) . The estimated cost for the consulting mental health professional is $2,150 (100 Applicants x 15 min x $86/hr). The estimate of total annual burden to the Peace Corps resulting from collection of this information is $5,600.

Mammogram Form

It is estimated that 224 Applicants will be required to complete this form and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 15 minutes to review the information, in most cases without any need to consult with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $2,576 (224 Applicants x 15 minutes x $46/hr).

Pap Screening Form

It is estimated that 2,695 Applicants will be required to complete this form and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 15 minutes to review the information, in most cases without any need to consult with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $30,992.50 (2,695 Applicants x 15 minutes x $46/hr).

Colon Cancer Screening Form

It is estimated that 354 Applicants will be required to complete this form and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 15 minutes to review the information, in most cases without any need to consult with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $4,071 (354 Applicants x 15 minutes x $46/hr).

ECG Form

It is estimated that 354 Applicants will be required to complete this form and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 15 minutes to review the information, in most cases without any need to consult with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $4,071 (354 Applicants x 15 minutes x $46/hr).

Reactive Tuberculin Test Evaluation Form

It is estimated that 352 Applicants will be required to complete this form and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 15 minutes to review the information. It does not require consultation with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $4,048 (352 Applicants x 15 minutes x $46/hr).

Insulin Dependent Supplemental Documentation Form

It is estimated that 8 Applicants will be required to complete this form and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 15 minutes to review the information. It does not require consultation with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $92 (8 Applicants x 15 minutes x $46/hr).

Prescription for Eyeglasses Form

It is estimated that 2,432 Applicants will be required to complete this form and return it to the Peace Corps. It is expected that it will take a nurse approximately 15 minutes to review the information. It does not require consultation with a physician. The estimated cost for nurse review is $27,968 (2,432 Applicants x 15 minutes x $46/hr).

The cost figures are adjusted to reflect the range of costs involved with these particular data collections. Costs associated with reviewing the Health History Form and the Report of Physical Examination used in the medical screening process are reflected on the supporting statements for those respective forms.

15. All questions contained in these forms were previously part of a separate form under a separate OMB Control number that contained other questions and requests for information outside of the scope of these new forms. Applicants originally had to respond to these questions even if they did not have a history of the conditions covered by these forms. These questions have been separated out and included in these particular forms which will be provided only to Applicants who have stated a history of these conditions in the Health History Form.

16. This information will not be quantified or published.

17. The Agency is not seeking approval to conceal or omit the expiration date for OMB approval of the information collection.

18. The agency is able to certify compliance with all provisions under Item 19 of OMB Form 83-I.

Section B. Collection of Information Employing Statistical Methods

This collection of information does not employ statistical methods.

1 The Peace Corps Act states that, except as provided in the Peace Corps Act, Volunteers are not employees for any purpose. 22 U.S.C. § 2504(a). Nevertheless, Volunteers are entitled to receive compensation under the Federal Employees Compensation Act for injuries received during service. 5 U.S.C. § 8142.

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