Becoming or remaining certified as a diver requires a comprehensive medical exam. Below is what you can expect at each stage of the process.
To work as an occupational diver in BC, you must hold a valid Certificate of Medical Fitness to Dive, as required by WorkSafeBC and BC’s Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (BC 296/97). For further information please see the Worksafe BC webpage here.
How Often Do I Need an Exam?
- Up to age 39: every 2 years
- From age 40: every year
- Anytime if your health changes, you’ve had a diving incident, or if a doctor recommends it
What’s Included in the Exam?
Your diving medical includes a full history, physical exam, and the following tests (some always required, some only if needed):
1. In-Clinic Testing (done during your appointment)
Spirometry (Lung Function Test):
- Measures how well your lungs are working.
- Done in our office at no additional cost.
2. Lab Work
Bloodwork and/or urine tests:
- Requisition provided by our clinic.
3. Imaging
Chest X-Ray:
- Typically required at the first exam only.
- Not usually needed again unless there are medical concerns.
4. Hearing Test (Audiogram)
- Required for all divers.
- We refer you to Hear Canada (you may use a different audiogram provider if you wish).
- Cost varies and is the patient’s responsibility.
5. Cardiac Stress Test (Treadmill Test)
- Under 40 years old: Not required.
- Age 40–49: One-time only.
- Age 50+: Required every year.
- Usually referred to VGH Cardiac Lab.
- Divers have reported the private cost is about $250, though to date MSP has generally covered it.
Fees & Coverage
- Most testing (spirometry, labs, chest X-ray, and stress tests at VGH) has historically been covered by MSP.
- Important: We cannot guarantee MSP coverage for external services. Patients are responsible for any fees not covered.
- The audiogram (hearing test) is billed separately and is the patient’s responsibility.