PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. (Oct. 2, 2014) – Bayfront Health Punta Gorda is proud to announce that pharmacist Viral Patel, RPh, became a U.S. citizen this week. Prior to earning his green card for employment, Patel was a full-time volunteer pharmacist at the hospital for two years.
After receiving his green card in 2008, Patel continued working at the hospital to complete his internship—a requirement to apply for a pharmacy license in the U.S. He passed his boards in 2009 to become a registered pharmacist.
When asked if he was nervous about the naturalization ceremony and taking the oath, Patel replied, “No. I had been there a couple times before with my wife and my in-laws, so I knew what to expect. I was out within the hour with my certificate.”
The pharmacy team at Bayfront Health Punta Gorda celebrated Patel’s achievement and presented him with a Captain America t-shirt. Alex Radomski, Director of Pharmacy said, “I have enjoyed working with Viral for the last six years. He is a dedicated pharmacist and an exemplary United States Citizen.”
There are several requirements to become a U.S. citizen, including: be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and have resided as one for at least five years, have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months, be a person of good moral character, and be willing and able to take the Oath of Allegiance.
