Additionally, the medical exam also assesses the applicant's balance, endurance, strength, and mobility through fitness testing. Emotional and mental fitness is also assessed, considering how an applicant will cope with homesickness. Depending on how long it takes to get the results on the tests, may determine when you are actually given the medical certificate. The certificate is valid for a maximum of two years and can cost upwards of $200 USD (plus any additional cost of tests). All crewmembers must do their medical exam every two years. The cost of the medical is an expense that must be paid by the crewmember. Sample Questions on Your Marine Medical Exam The health questionnaire can be intimidating. It is usually a couple pages long with many personal questions. How honest should you be? The fact is, you should be as honest as possible. The doctor is trying to assess if you are fit to work at sea, both physically and mentally. For one, blood and urine tests don't lie. Secondly, the doctor wants to assess if you'll have the mental capacity and good coping skills to handle life onboard.
Restrictions on a ENG1 certificate will prevent you gaining STCW qualifications for vessels greater than 24m in length. Professional Practices and Responsibilities course Since April 2012 it has been a requirement for commercial endorsement holders to take the online Professional Practices and Responsibilities course (PPR). All new applicants for the endorsement must take the course prior to submitting their application. Existing commercial endorsement holders who gained their endorsement prior to April 2012 will be required to take the course prior to their next revalidation. More details are available through the link on the right. Re-validating your commercial endorsement All commercial endorsements must be revalidated every five years by proving at least 150 days of actual sea service on appropriate vessels during the previous five years, and be in possession of a valid medical fitness certificate. PLEASE NOTE: During the COVID-19 pandemic the MCA has approved a temporary extension of medical certificates.
The exam must be conducted by a doctor or medical practitioner approved to carry out seafarer medical examinations. Not all doctors are authorized to conduct these types of exams. (Your cruise line recruiter will give you a list of approved doctors in your region. ) Once you have contacted an approved doctor and booked your appointment, take some time to make sure you are prepared. The International Labour Organization (ILO) has published Guidelines on the Medical Examinations of Seafarers that details 70 pages of the what the exam is all about if you want to read about it more in depth. What to Expect During a Medical Exam for a Cruise Ship Job Being prepared and knowing what to expect during the medical exam will make it less daunting. What tests are done? What questions are asked? What should you bring? For starters, you will need to bring your passport and a copy of your vaccination record. (Information about vaccines can be found on the World Health Organization website). Your cruise line employer will expect that your vaccinations are up to date.