Seafarers in the Philippines and around the world rely on Pre-Employment Medical Examinations (PEMEs) to secure contracts.
But what happens when the system that’s supposed to protect your health… actually puts it at risk?
In recent years, multiple seafarers have reported suspicious medical findings, forced referrals, and unnecessary procedures with many leading to extra costs and psychological stress.
This is one such story- shared to raise awareness, help fellow mariners spot red flags, and protect their hard-earned careers at sea.
🚑 A Seafarer’s PEME Experience
In March 2015, I underwent a routine PEME at a new medical clinic.
No major complaints had surfaced about it, and I was confident my lifestyle would reflect a clean bill of health.
I exercised regularly, avoided smoking and excessive alcohol, and maintained a diet- rich in vegetables and low in fats.
This was my routine so I could pass my medical exam without any hits!
But after my ECG (electrocardiogram), things took a strange turn.
💓 The Suspicious Finding: “Left Ventricular Hypertrophy”
The clinic informed me I had a heart condition- Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH), and advised I consult a cardiologist.
That phrase alone was terrifying.
“How could I have a heart issue? I’m 25, physically active, and health-conscious!”
The finding left me confused and anxious. I couldn’t tell my friends or family yet.
Instead, I turned to online forums and articles, researching every angle of LVH: its causes, symptoms, and connection to seafarers.
But something didn’t add up.
🧑⚕️ Meeting the Cardiologist: A Fast, Generic Diagnosis
A week later, I visited the recommended cardiologist- conveniently located near the train station.
I brought all the test results and ECG with me, bracing for bad news.
To my surprise, the doctor simply advised:
- Avoid red meat
- Exercise regularly
- Stay hydrated
Then he handed me a “Fit to Work” certificate after a few minutes- and charged a dollars for the consult.
It felt rehearsed. Dismissive. As if I was part of a routine play.
🕵️ Is This a Pattern or a Scam?
After returning to the clinic, I spoke with fellow seafarers who had also been referred to the same cardiologist.
They were 23 to 30 years old, all active and in good physical condition, yet diagnosed with the same LVH condition.
They too received identical advice, paid the same amount, and were cleared without deeper evaluation.
Even those who lived far from Manila ended up in the same clinic.
The dots began to connect.
Runner’s Heart
Actually, I may have agreed with the findings but not totally with the cause.
I was jogging full blast on steep roads and pushing myself so hard that I’d be drenched in sweat.
Most probably, I may have acquired the “Runner’s Heart” which is normal if you are pushing to your limits every physical exercise.
🧍♂️ You’re Not Alone: Other Seafarers Faced the Same
Later, while onboard, I talked to other crewmates who had recently undergone PEMEs.
The pattern repeated:
- Same clinic
- Same ECG result: Left Ventricular Hypertrophy
- Same cardiologist referral
- Same consultation fee
- Same brief advice– “Avoid meat, exercise more…”
Even friends I messaged on Facebook shared similar stories.
Some had already experienced the exact process and were surprised I went through the same!
If I legit fail my medical exam, this should not be the case.
At that point, it was no longer an isolated case. It looked like a systematic practice– a possible PEME medical scam.
💉 Common Types of PEME Medical Scams Seafarers Must Watch Out For
Unfortunately, stories like mine are not uncommon in the maritime industry.
Here are known forms of questionable PEME practices affecting seafarers:
1. ⚕️ Fake or Exaggerated Medical Findings
Seafarers are told they have issues like LVH, hearing problems, or vision concerns, even if they’re physically fit.
2. 🏥 Forced Specialist Referrals
Clinics “recommend” expensive specialists (often affiliated or partnered) even when not medically necessary.
3. 💸 Overpriced Treatments or Tests
Seafarers are pressured into paying for additional tests, treatments, or “re-checks” that inflate their total bill.
4. 🧾 Repeat Findings Across Multiple Seafarers
Multiple seamen from different agencies get the exact same diagnosis, treatment plan, and clearance pattern.
5. 🎫 Bribery and Under-the-Table Clearance
Some crew members admit to paying off staff to pass faster, which damages industry integrity and endangers lives.
⚠️ Note: Not all clinics are guilty. But even a few unethical practices tarnish trust in the maritime medical system.
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself From PEME Medical Scams
As a seafarer, your health and career depend on medical accuracy.
Here’s how to guard yourself:
✅ 1. Choose Accredited Clinics
Only undergo PEMEs at DOH-accredited and DMW-approved medical clinics with a solid reputation.
✅ 2. Request a Second Opinion
If you’re told you have a serious condition, consult an independent specialist. Don’t rely solely on a clinic’s referral.
✅ 3. Keep Records of Past PEMEs
Bring old test results (especially ECGs) to compare findings.
✅ 4. Understand Basic Medical Terms
Know what conditions like LVH, hearing threshold, or pulmonary restriction really mean.
✅ 5. Report Abusive Clinics
File a report to your manning agency, DOH, MARINA, or DMW if you suspect malpractice.
💥 Breaking: A prominent medical clinic faced scrutiny over alleged scam targeting seafarers funds.
👨✈️ Final Thoughts from a Seafarer
This isn’t just a rant, it’s a call to awareness.
Medical exams shouldn’t be a source of stress, anxiety, or financial burden for seafarers.
We work hard, live away from our families, and deserve transparency and respect.
If we allow unethical practices to go unchecked, more seamen, especially cadets and first-timers, will suffer the same fate.
📌 FAQs: Seafarer Medical Scam Red Flags
❓ Is it normal for young, fit seafarers to have LVH?
Not usually. LVH can appear in athletes (runner’s heart), but multiple similar diagnoses in unrelated crew suggest a pattern worth questioning.
❓ What should I do if I suspect my PEME was rigged?
Request a copy of all test results, consult an independent specialist, and report the incident to DMW or MARINA.
❓ Can I refuse a referral to a certain doctor?
Yes. You have the right to consult any licensed specialist of your choosing.
📝 Call to Action: Share Your Story
Have you experienced something similar? Your voice matters!
Share your story in maritime groups, forums, or even submit a tip to your union or regulator.
When we speak up, we protect the next generation of mariners.
May the winds be in our favor.
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