Physicians Training in Diving Medicine 2027

Course Description and Goal

The UHMS Physicians Training in Diving Medicine Course was started in 1977 with financial support from the Department of Energy and the cooperation of the U.S. Navy. Further influence has been based on internationally accepted training objectives that were agreed upon by the Diving Medical Advisory Committee (DMAC), the European Diving Technology Committee (EDTC), and the European Committee for Hyperbaric Medicine (ECHM).  This course has been approved by the Diving Medical Advisory Committee and the European Diving Technology Committee (DMAC/EDTCmed) as a Level 2D - Medical management of diving accidents and illnesses (Diving Medical Physician) course through 31 December 2025.

This course is primarily designed for those who possess an MD, DO, or equivalent degree; however those non-physicians who will use the training in their geographic areas to enhance the safety and efficiency of diving operations will also find the course of value.

The goal of this course is to train physicians in recognizing and treating diving medical emergencies. Course educational methodology includes lectures, case presentations, video clips, printed support materials, practical exercises, and both formal and informal question and answer sessions with the faculty.

In addition to lectures on the physiology and medicine of diving, the course will include practical exposure to different types of diving equipment, recompression chambers and support systems and situational/simulation training.

FORMS that must be filled out and uploaded on Registration or Emailed to uhms@uhms.org. 

• All students must complete the Diver Medical Participant Questionnaire if they wish to participate in diving/pressure-related activities for the upcoming PhysicianTraining in Diving Medicine course.  The purpose of this Medical Questionnaire is to find out if you should be examined by your doctor before participating in recreational diver training. (Click here for Diver Medical Questionnaire form). 

CME Hours: For MD/DO/PhD, or equivalent advanced degree, a Certificate of Continuing Medical Education Credits will be issued for those who complete an online evaluation form; MOC credit will be available. 

Other course information

• You will be required do an online course (course to be announced) during the exam time frame.
• You will be required to bring a laptop or iPad/tablet. This is needed so you can take the online exam and to follow along with the lectures, as you wish. Paper copies of the exam will be available.
• Pool activities / Diving gear:  All pool day activities are voluntary and not required.  However, for safety purposes, you must complete this Discover course (information below), or equivalent, prior to diving participation in the pool experience.  If you choose to forgo the course, no worries.  We would welcome your participation on the pool deck learning tender skills, safety protocols, etc.
  • All registrants must bring their dive certification card.
    • If you do not have a dive certification card: We would be happy to arrange a separate "Discover Scuba" course, from an accredited agency, e.g. PADI.  This usually takes about 2 hours of pool time, and would take place in the evening, or perhaps on Saturday in a separate part of the pool.  We have done this before, and the feedback was universally positive.  Please note that this is NOT a certification course, just an introduction to the minimal knowledge needed to be safe in a pool environment.  The cost is $100 USD, which includes equipment rental.
  • The pool temperature will always be 80-81 F, almost always bright sunshine and minimal wind. Many people find the event a bit chilling after 8 hours in the pool, and opt for some protection.
    • Swimsuit only: If you are comfortable with the water temperature of 80 degrees, keep it simple, however remember that sun protection should not be ignored, so at least a rash guard is highly recommended.
    • Bring or rent your personal wetsuit. Rental suits are available at Ocean Enterprises, San Diego, 1.858.565.6054.
    • Best Option: Buy or bring your own neoprene vest or hooded vest. This will provide plenty of thermal and sun protection. 3-5 mm thickness is ideal.Suggested options are:
    • Please Note:  You are responsible for renting or buying the wetsuits or vests.
    • Tanks, BC’s, and regulators are supplied, however, registrants can bring their personal regulators if they wish.
• You will be provided with a web link to access all the lecture presentations, homework and handouts.
• You will be given a notebook to take notes (this notebook will have just the lecture topics and objectives).