Medical Attention for Seafarers: Standards, Responsibilities, and Rights

Medical Attention for Seafarers: Standards, Responsibilities, and Rights

1. The Right to Medical Care

Every seafarer working under an employment contract has the fundamental right to medical care while serving on board a ship.
This principle is protected under the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) standards.
The shipowner or employer must ensure:

• Immediate medical attention in the event of illness, injury, or any deterioration of health;

• Dental treatment in cases of acute pain or emergency;

• Access to hospitalization and shore-based treatment, when required.

This right applies equally to all seafarers regardless of nationality, rank, or place of service.

2. Treatment Abroad and Hospitalization

If a seafarer becomes ill or injured during the period of employment, they are entitled to medical care at the employer’s expense.
When hospitalization abroad is required, the company is responsible for all related costs — including treatment, accommodation, medication, diagnostic tests, and transportation — until the seafarer fully recovers or is repatriated home.These guarantees ensure that no seafarer is left without medical assistance while serving away from their country of residence, reflecting global standards for health and safety at sea.

3. Right to Treatment After Repatriation

When a seafarer is declared unfit for duty due to illness or injury sustained while on board, the right to medical care continues after repatriation.
The company must cover medical expenses and hospitalization for a reasonable period following the seafarer’s return, provided valid medical documentation is submitted.Typically:

• In cases of illness, the company continues to pay for treatment for up to several months after repatriation;

• In cases of injury, the coverage lasts until recovery or until a medical board determines a permanent disability.

This post-repatriation protection helps seafarers recover without facing financial burdens from medical bills.

4. Medical Assessment and Verification

To maintain entitlement to free treatment, the seafarer must submit periodic medical reports confirming the need for ongoing care.
If there is disagreement between the company’s appointed doctor and the seafarer’s personal physician, an independent medical expert may be jointly selected by the employer and the seafarer (or union).
The decision of this independent doctor is final and binding for both parties.
This process ensures impartiality and protects the seafarer’s rights.

5. Exclusions from Medical Coverage

A company may refuse to cover medical treatment if it is proven that the illness or injury was caused by the seafarer’s own actions, including:

• Violation of safety procedures or discipline;

• Use of alcohol, drugs, or toxic substances;

• Concealment of chronic diseases during the pre-employment medical examination;

• Conditions unrelated to service, such as pre-existing or hereditary illnesses (cardiovascular, mental, nervous, oncological, etc.).

These exclusions are recognized internationally to protect employers from liability in cases of deliberate negligence or dishonesty.

6. Health Insurance and Financial Protection

Modern shipping companies provide comprehensive crew medical insurance, which covers:

• On-board and shore-based medical treatment;

• Emergency evacuation and transport (Medical Evacuation);

• Hospitalization abroad;

• Compensation in case of temporary or permanent disability;

• Repatriation of remains in the event of death.

This system ensures that seafarers receive adequate healthcare and financial protection under international maritime standards.

7. Responsibilities of the Company and the Master

The ship’s Master holds personal responsibility for organizing medical care on board.
He must:

• Provide first aid and ensure access to treatment;

• Inform the company of any medical incidents;

• Arrange evacuation or hospitalization when necessary.

Every vessel must maintain a Medical Log Book, recording all medical consultations, prescribed treatments, and medications.
In serious cases, a detailed medical report is sent to the company and relevant authorities.

8. Sick Pay and Related Rights

If a seafarer becomes temporarily unfit for duty due to illness or injury, they are entitled to sick pay — compensation based on their basic wage — during the recovery period.
This payment continues until the seafarer is declared fit to return to work or a disability is confirmed.However, sick pay can be suspended if the seafarer:

• Disobeys medical instructions;

• Consumes alcohol or drugs during treatment;

• Fails to submit medical documentation on time.

These conditions promote fairness and accountability in medical leave management.

9. Medical Examination and Compensation for Disability

If a seafarer remains unfit for an extended period, the company may request an examination by a medical board to determine:

• The degree of recovery or disability;

• The right to compensation under disability insurance;

• Whether continued medical care is necessary.

The medical board’s decision is considered final and is used as a basis for insurance and compensation procedures.

10. Conclusion

Medical care for seafarers is not a privilege — it is a fundamental human right anchored in maritime law.
Shipowners are required to guarantee treatment, hospitalization, and repatriation promptly and without discrimination.
In return, seafarers must comply with safety rules, maintain discipline, and undergo honest medical evaluations.

⚖️ Core Maritime Principle:
“No seafarer shall be left without medical care at sea or ashore.” — Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006)