Medical releases - questions

[Disneymom]

Medical releases. What should I expect when I travel and want to dive? I have a couple signed releases, and would like to know if I am going to have to show them anywhere I may want to dive (i.e. Bahamas, Cozumel, etc....).
If that is the case, what's the best way/place to keep them so they don't get wet or damaged? Or do I need to make several copies, and just turn one at each diver operator when I do dive travel? Do the operators keep the copy?

[Vercingetorix]

I've never heard of medical releases being required by dive operators. Heck, many barely even ask for the C-card (I read that from Larry in another thread).

[Charles R]

Unless you answer yes to any of the questions on their forums you should not have to worry about needing anything more than the one they have you sign to protect themselves from a law suit!

[Disneymom]

Originally Posted by Charles R

Unless you answer yes to any of the questions on their forums you should not have to worry about needing anything more than the one they have you sign to protect themselves from a law suit!

That's the thing - I had a couple 'yeses' on my intitial form for training. I assume I would have to fill something similar out for dive operators. If that's the case, wouldn't I need a release with me? Of course, this is the basis for my question.... to find out what I'll need to do.

[Osprey]

I would carry them with you anywhere just in case, and then call ahead to each dive op before you go to ask if they want to see them or not. If not, just leave them in the hotel

As for how to keep them safe, I am sure just a little file folder would be just fine. I used a plastic folder for my papers getting into Canada (no passport)

[dallasdivergirl]

I have never been asked for a release. Like Rick some have never even asked for a c-card. Everyone has asked us to sign their waiver.

Like Osprey I get a little dollar thin plastic folder that holds all of my travel docs & numbers for everyone.

[Charles R]

Some Dive Ops will ask you to fill out medical questions on their waiver form if you answer yes they will not let you dive without doctor clearance. My thing is if you know about an issue and your doctor says you are OK to dive then answer No and dont worry about it or you can call ahead and ask and fax them a copy before you arrive!

[Zenagirl]

Wow, isn't it funny that I can't remember whether or not there have been medical questions on charter release forms?? Considering we travel to dive, one would think I'd remember. <LOL> The only thing I can remember is having to fill out medical questions when doing training. Otherwise the form is usually a release of liability for the dive operator.

[Illini_Fan]

When I was in OZ, we had to complete a diver profile that had a couple of medical questions, but very generic. I pulled the form up a few minutes ago just to refresh myself on the questions and they were like: "Have you had any medical problems since your last dive medical?"

[chrissysb]

We have been on many a dive trip and NEVER have they asked us for the medical questionnaire like you get with PADI and signing up for a course. C-Card, yes but medical info, No. If you are in doubt, I would have a Dr's note ready stating that you have a medical condition but this condition allows you to dive within the standard safety limits. OR... You could just lie on the form they are asking for...