Physician Sign-off Not Required - Do it anyway?

[Crewfish13]

I'm starting my OW certification classes tonight, through SSI. Based on the SSI Medical History, I have no conditions that would require me to gain physician's approval prior to diving. I'm 28, in good overall health, a bit overweight (BMI 28 but falling), and have no medical conditions aside from mild seasonal allergies that I can easily treat with OTC medications (Claritin/Benadryl) when I get congested. So all's good on that front.

However, just filling out the form made me realize that I haven't been in to see my physician in about 5 years, and I should probably get in for a well-check. In addition, I'd like to discuss treatment options to clear up congestion the allergies that would be best for use with diving, as congestion on the wrong day can ruin a trip, and I'm not sure I'd want to be diving on Benadryl.

Long story short, I'm going in for a well-check Thursday. Should I bring the SSI medical forms along and get a sign off, even thought it's not required? My concern is that once I get a sign-off, people will be looking for it to be re-upped annually.

Thanks for your input!

 

[redacted]

If the Dr. finds something new, you may need the sign-off.

 

[herbdb]

I think it is a good thing to get a physical on a regular basis, particularly as you grow older or start a new physical activity. You should do it just for your peace of mind. I would not bother with the forms unless your Doctor finds something that is a problem

 

[fjpatrum]

No one I've ever talked to about dives or continuing education (AOW, rescue, etc.) has asked about medical certification, though if you're planning on getting yearly physicals it's not that hard to bring along an extra piece of paper. The big question I would have is how familiar your doctor is with diving and the conditions that would represent risk factors.

Personally, if I have a no, I wouldn't bother unless the doctor specifically finds something on the list that would then become a yes. You know your own health and whether or not you really should get an MD sign-off.

 

[vladimir]

28 years old? Unless you need stitches, x-rays, or a vaccination, make a doctor's appointment for August, 2020, for a complete physical.

 

[DivemasterDennis]

The medical checklist is pretty comprehensive, and if you have no conditions that are listed, you can dive. However, a general physical is a good idea, even at age 28, particularly if you have issues with weight, that may implicate cholesterol, hypertension, or nothing at all. Quite candidly, if you haven't been to a doctor in five years, you may have such a condition and not know it, so I think you are following the wise and prudent path. You will enjoy diving all the more for the peace of mind you will get from the check up, and even if there is a condition to be treated with medication or diet, you can still dive, and more safely than if you never knew of that condition. Good for you for being smart about the whole thing.
DivemasterDennis

 

[TSandM]

I think getting a physical is a great idea, and second the recommendation to get your blood pressure and cholesterol checked. I do not think you need to have your doctor sign your forms, unless something more than mild seasonal allergies turns up, or unless you are placed on a prescription medication.

 

[Crewfish13]

I was going over the NIH guidelines recently and they recommend going to the doctor twice in your 20's, so I'm pretty much right on schedule for that. Cholesterol is a definite on my list, as I don't know the last time it was checked. I'm sure blood pressure is fine, as my wife's a pediatric resident, and has used me as a practice dummy on more than one occasion. I would be shocked if my doctor finds anything, but I'd rather be shocked in a doctors office than an ambulance.

I'm also actively on a diet (lost 15 lbs since June), and plan to get my weight completely under control in the next 6 months (finally taking care of all that college pizza & beer). As only divers can appreciate, I noticed a definite bouyancy difference swimming while holding my 18-month old daughter Saturday (1st time in a pool since mid-June).

I think I'll skip getting a sign off, but will definitely take the opportunity to talk allergy treatment.

 

[BonaireDan]

I agree with the above. A physical is important for yoruself but if you legitimately answer no to all questions you should be just fine.

However - keep in mind that the medical clearance as such is FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY first and foremost. You only cheat yourself and risk injury or worse if you cheat.

Enjoy your experience.

 

[knotical]

There is a chance it would be beneficial to have your physician sign off on your medical.

If you pursue advanced scuba training to the point of Dive Control Specialist / DiveMaster within a year (that's quite aggressive), you would need a physicians' release less than a year old (even if your form is all no's).

But with an 18-month-old and a wife in residency, I doubt you'll have the time.