Stirring the Pot a Bit

[wreckchick]

It could never hurt to have a copy of any medical clearance you have had to provide in the past in or near your logbook/c-card. That way if there is a medical history, you can answer honestly AND provide the necessary clearance paperwork at the same time.

I believe I've already stated my opinion on lying about medical conditions.

DandyDon... coumadin is a blood thinner. I can't see that the meds would be a contra-indication even though the underlying medical condition might be. If you were to cut yourself on the boat you would be bleeding more than one might expect. If you were unable to convey that information to EMS it might be a bad thing.

I don't understand why people that have medical issues are so afraid of disclosing them even thought that puts them at increased risk of having medical care mishandled in case of an emergency! Just bring the forms with you and it's a non-issue!

Am I missing something here?

R

 

[Dive-aholic]

My wife has asthma but has been cleared to dive (she's an instructor, deco, and cave diver). We just get a medical clearance form signed every year and take it on all trips with us. This way the operator is aware but also off the hook since an MD cleared her.

 

[BurBunny]

Every year, I get an updated medical release (using the standard PADI form because it's convenient) from my doctor. Have several copies made and keep them permanently packed with my gear.

Because my issues of concern could also play a part in accurately diagnosing DCS or other medical emergencies, I don't feel right not disclosing. But I'm darned sure I have the release, current, signed and available, so I won't be refused diving.

That said, if I know I'm traveling some place like AUS/NZ which have extremely restrictive medical releases (US docs aren't always acceptable), I'm going to be further pro-active and contact the operator in advance to see what *they* need from me rather than presuming. Should they tell you this without asking? You bet. Do I want to be refused diving because I didn't take an extra step to assure my vacation? Nope!

Take it with a grain of salt. My pirate name is Red Anne Cash (Or Dread Pirate Cash... depending on which favorite color is my more favorite this minute).

 

[Diver0001]

What's a moonbat?

I think in this context she means a chaotic airhead.

A "non tracking" moonbat would be like a blonde one.

R..

 

[alcina]

That said, if I know I'm traveling some place like AUS/NZ which have extremely restrictive medical releases (US docs aren't always acceptable),
.

This is a great example of having some but not all the information...Australia (can't speak for NZ) does not have extremely restrictive medical releases. I believe Queensland may require medical releases in some instances, but you need to check with your operator.

Australia does require a diving medical done to the Australian Standard 4005.1 for all students completing an Open Water Course - whether you do the entire course here or just do your referral dives. This medical can be done overseas BUT the overseas doctor must ensure that the AS4005.1 is met and the correct forms must be completed. Again, this applies only to Open Water Course students.

Other students (AOW, RDC, Specialties etc) may require a medical clearance if they have an indication (look at the PADI form as it hits them and is easy to lay hands on). This clearance does not need to be done to the AS 4005.1 standard, but must state that you are fit to dive and be recent. Again, check with your local operator for complete details for that State/location.

To dive, for otherwise healthy certified divers, the vast majority of Australia requires no medical release at this time at all.

 

[Packhorse]

That said, if I know I'm traveling some place like AUS/NZ which have extremely restrictive medical releases.

First I have heard about it. I needed a medical for my OW and another a few years later when I did my deep, wreck, night & nitrox.
Am asthmatic and my DR was fine on signing my medical.
I havent done alot of charters but I would be extreemly suprised if a charter operator asked for a medical.

 

[Mako Mark]

from what i remember Australia is a little more restrictive than NZ. There, a mandatory clearance from a Doctor is required.

 

[alcina]

from what i remember Australia is a little more restrictive than NZ. There, a mandatory clearance from a Doctor is required.

This is not accurate (mandatory clearance) - please see my post above for current Australian details and remember to check with your chosen operator for any local or State requirements

 

[Mako Mark]

It is a long time since I was working there Alcina. Dont be too hard on me....

 

[alcina]

Now where did my "whip" smilie go????