Before joining a vessel, it’s easy to see the medical examination as just another item on your pre-joining checklist. But it’s about much more than getting a certificate. It’s about making sure you are healthy and ready for the months ahead at sea.

Life onboard means spending weeks or even months away from home, so if you have a health problem during a voyage, seeing a doctor or specialist may not be easy, especially when the vessel is far from shore. Something that could be treated quickly at home may become much more difficult to deal with at sea.

Our advice? Don’t wait until your next contract is approaching to think about your health.

Try to arrange routine health checks, dental appointments and any necessary follow-up visits at the start of your leave, so you can deal with any health issues before your next medical examination, avoiding unexpected problems or delays to your joining date.

When you visit the doctor, be open about your health, any symptoms you have noticed and any medication you take. Even if something seems minor, it’s better to check it before you sail.

Always use an officially approved maritime medical centre and never use a fake medical certificate or one issued without a proper medical examination. If your medical certificate is found to be false, your insurance may not cover your medical expenses if you become ill or injured which could leave you and your family facing high medical expenses alone.

Your health is your most important asset. Take care of it while you’re ashore, give yourself time to deal with any health concerns, and join your next vessel knowing you’ve done your best to prepare for the months ahead.