Medical check-ups?

[Andy]

Here's one for any seasoned travellers amongst you;

Generally speaking, for those destinations that require a medical certificate, is it easier sort it out before you go (ie in UK) or is it straightforward in places like Spain where English is widely spoken?

Any comments from globetrotters would be appreciated.

Thanks

Andy

[acelockco]

I have never heard of such a thing, but then again I am not the most seasoned traveler out there.

I would think that anything you can take care of before you trip will help things go better. Why would you want to waste any of your travel time in a Dr.'s office? It could turn out to be an all day event!

The other thing is, what if (hopefully not) something is really wrong. Wouldn't you perfer to know about that at home (ie. good medical care) or in some strange country? If they even could detect the problem there.....

[The Publisher]

What destinations require a medical certificate?

[lottie]

Here's one for any seasoned travellers amongst you;

Generally speaking, for those destinations that require a medical certificate, is it easier sort it out before you go (ie in UK) or is it straightforward in places like Spain where English is widely spoken?

Any comments from globetrotters would be appreciated.

Thanks

Andy

Andy,
As Ace suggested, you would be better off getting a medical certificate in the UK before travelling for a couple of reasons - your GP would be able to do this (I'm sure they would), and they know about the medical history of the traveller. If anything further needs to be undertaken on any treatment, it'll be better to get that done before travelling in an environment that you know and where there are no language barrier problems.

HTH

[Papa Bear]

Australia does! You better bring it with you our your not diving! You must have a cert from your doc even on a live aboard! People have been turned away that have booked and not brought it with them!

[Sarah]

And just exactly what must this medical paper certify?

[Papa Bear]

That you are fit for diving! I think you can find the form on a government site? I will try and find it and post it here

[rubber chicken]

Australia does! You better bring it with you our your not diving! You must have a cert from your doc even on a live aboard! People have been turned away that have booked and not brought it with them!

Partial credit!

You need medical certification to learn to dive here, but not if already certified.

[Papa Bear]

Here is the link and it is in section 2.3.1. http://www.marine.uq.edu.au/hirs/downloads/bd2.pdf

[Quero]

Partial credit!

You need medical certification to learn to dive here, but not if already certified.

Absolutely right. I've dived in Australia enough (including on a LOB) to know that no medical form signed by a doctor is needed for certified divers. However, if you have a condition that could give pause, and you think there is a chance that you might be turned down, it's wise to take your medical clearance form along.

As for learning to dive, we all require at least medical statements signed by the student diver, and some countries require a medical clearance signed by a doctor, in addition.