THE Department of Public Health says it will employ more island residents and reduce its dependence on off-island hires.
Health Secretary James U. Hofschneider said his department welcomes and encourages CNMI residents to inquire about current or upcoming job openings for which they may be qualified, or about education and training necessary for specific jobs.
Due to a lack of local manpower, Public Health relies on off-island workers to fill technical and professional positions.
In a public notice, Hofschneider also encouraged potential job seekers to follow the government’s personnel hiring guidelines instead of directly approaching Public Health or Commonwealth Health Center officials.
Hofschneider informed school principals and guidance counselors about the current personnel needs at Public Health and CHC.
These include technicians and technologists, therapists, medical records personnel, nurses, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, medical social workers, substance abuse counselors, registered nutritionists, health educators, hospital facility engineers, epidemiologists and physicians.
“I believe a more pro-active, aggressive and comprehensive approach to human resources development is needed and this requires the concerted efforts of the local community, educators, policy makers, business community and administrative leaders,” he said.
Some of these positions require only a two-year degree beyond high school, which can be acquired at Northern Marianas College, Hofschneider said.
He said Public Health is also a participant in the National Health Service Corps.
