You know you’ve got to pass a dive physical to get your c-card, and you know there are some subsequent medical exams you need to pass in order to continue diving. Many divers have questions about medical standards for diving, and with that in mind, we’ve put together this quick guide to medical examinations for sport divers.
Basic Medical Requirements
All divers need to have a current diving physical exam on record, in which a physician declares them fit to participate in diving activities. When selecting your physician, you can choose any board licensed MD, however it is advisable to seek one who is trained in diving or undersea medicine. Before taking your physical, ensure you are in good general health, and free of chronic, disabling diseases or conditions that could be exacerbated by diving.
In general, you will need to have a complete medical evaluation prior to beginning diving. You will need to be reevaluated every three years until you reach age forty, after which you will need to be reevaluated every two years. In addition, any time you suffer a major injury or illness, or anytime you have a condition that requires hospitalization for over 24 hours, you will need to get medical clearance in order to return to diving. If your injury or illness was pressure related, then that clearance must be granted by a physician who has been trained in diving medicine.
Medical Evaluations for Divers
All divers must undergo medical examinations consisting of:
•Release of medical information
•Complete medical history
•Diving physical
•Review of conditions for which a restriction from diving is recommended
For the initial examination, and for your first dive medical examination once you reach age forty, you’ll need to provide a complete medical history, plus the following:
•Audiogram
•Blood Chemistry
•CBC (Complete Blood Count0
•Chest X-Ray
•Pulmonary Function
•Urinalysis
•Visual Acuity Test
•12 Lead EKG
At each re-examination, you will need to repeat all tests, with the exception of the 12-Lead EKG and the Chest X-ray. In addition, you will need to undergo any additional testing your physician deems necessary to qualify you to continue SCUBA diving.
The results will be compiled into a written report prepared by your physician, which will contain his or her opinion of your fitness to dive, including any limitations or recommended restrictions.
Keep in mind that these physical examinations are not optional, and remember to carefully consider each question you are asked. It is very important that you be completely honest with yourself, and with your doctor, as you go through the checklist attached to your diving medial history form, since diving with certain medical problems is simply asking for trouble – not just for yourself, but for anyone who must come to your rescue in the event you have a problem while diving. Answering “Yes” to some questions won’t stop you from passing your physical – in most cases, a “yes” answer means you will simply need to provide more information in order to ensure your body is capable of withstanding the pressure and other challenges diving presents.