Hauling on the water demands physical capability, keen alertness, and medical health. If you’re a Florida mariner or boater with a lost limb or physical impairment, you might wonder:
“Can I still pass the medical exam and remain certified?”
The answer is YES, in many cases, you can.
Mariners with prosthetics or disabilities can often get certified, as long as they can demonstrate they’re medically stable and capable of safely carrying out crucial job functions.
Let’s delve into how this is done.
Understanding Medical Certification for Mariners
If you want to work commercially on a vessel in Florida, you’ll need a valid Medical Certificate for Mariners Florida approved by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). You must also complete a medical exam based on the Form CG-719K which will be completed by a certified medical examiner.
The medical exam will determine whether you are physically and mentally qualified to conduct your duties on board the vessel safely.
Is a Missing Limb Cause for Automatic Disqualification?
No, not automatic.
A missing limb, amputation, or other physical disability does not automatically disqualify you from receiving your certificate.
The USCG looks at how well you can function with your condition. Their main concern is whether your disability prevents you from safely performing your essential duties onboard a vessel.
What Counts as “Essential Duties” for Mariners?
The Coast Guard defines essential tasks as those needed to ensure safety on a vessel. These include:
- Climbing stairs and ladders
- Moving across decks or tight spaces
- Lifting or carrying equipment
- Responding to emergencies
- Standing for extended periods
- Using communication devices (radios, alarms, etc.)
If your disability affects these areas, the examiner will look at how you’ve adapted and whether you’re still able to perform them — with or without assistive devices like prosthetics.
Using a Prosthetic? Here’s What Matters
If you use a prosthetic, it won’t disqualify you as long as:
- It functions well
- You’ve adapted to using it
- It doesn’t interfere with essential duties
- There’s no recurring medical issues related to its use
For example, a mariner with a below the knee prosthetic leg who can walk on deck, climb stairs and perform work tasks without support, would likely pass without a doubt.
What Happens During the Exam?
During Medical Exams for Mariners Florida your examiner will:
- Review your complete medical history
- Assess your mobility, balance, strength, and endurance
- Ask you questions about the limitations of your disability on being able to perform your assigned duties
- May ask for further testing or clearance form a specialist
If your condition is stable and you’ve adapted well, you can pass.
What Happens If You're Denied Certification?
If your application is stalled or denied, don’t freak out. You still have options:
Submit More Medical Information
Provide letters from your doctor, physical therapist, or former employers demonstrating that you can work safely.
Apply for a Waiver
In some cases the Coast Guard may issue a medical waiver for certain conditions if you can demonstrate fit for duty despite not meeting the minimum criteria.
Re-test or Seek Re-evaluation
You can request a re-exam or second opinion from another certified examiner familiar with Medical Exams For Boaters Florida.
Real-Life: Can You Work on a Boat with a Disability?
Yes, definitely. There are countless mariners who:
- Use prosthetics
- Have partial mobility
- Have adapted with training and assistive devices
In short, as long as they determine you can perform your duties safely and medically fit, you are cleared for the maritime industry.
Tips for a Successful Exam with a Disability
If you’re preparing for a mariner medical exam and have a missing limb or physical condition, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose the Right Examiner
Find a Medical Exams for Boaters Florida provider who is skilled at functional limitations and USCG regulations.
- Bring Documentation
Bring documentation from your doctor or therapist that shows your condition is stable and under good control.
- Be Honest
Indicate how your disability affects you, but emphasize how you’ve adapted and what you can still do.
- Show That You’re Capable
Discuss your training, employment experience, and how you handle daily tasks at sea.
You’re More Than Your Condition
Having lost a limb or having a disability does not mean that your maritime career is over. Many mariners have been able to continue their maritime careers and proceed to work safely and successfully with medical clearance, a functional assessment and proper documentation. Remember that the USCG and certified medical examiners are concerned about your ability to perform safely, not merely your diagnosis.
Need a mariner medical exam in Florida?
Select Dr. Weinberg at Sea Medicine, a trusted physician with experience assisting mariners overcome physical challenges and obtain the clearance they require.
Call Sea Medicine today at aweinberg@medavex.org or call (727) 648-2402 to arrange your exam and remain on course with your maritime career.
