Advanced first aid for commercial vessels. Be the ship’s designated medical officer.
4 Days
07 SEP 2026
Certification
MCA
Who issues your official qualification
Recognition
Worldwide
Where your certificate is accepted. Check with your flag state for specific approvals.
STCW Compliance
A-VI/4-2
Legal codes this course fulfills under maritime law
Suitable For
Chief officers, Captains
Who the course is designed for
Experience Level
Advanced
Minimum experience needed to join
Duration
5 Days
Training days only, breaks are not included
Certificate Validity
Lifetime
How long your certificate stays valid
Why This
Course Matters
This advanced-level STCW course is required for seafarers responsible for onboard medical care and is a core component of the MCA Master 500 CoC pathway. It prepares you to deliver sustained medical support offshore until professional care becomes available.
What You’ll
Learn
Clinical Patient Assessment
Take and interpret vital signs, manage respiratory and cardiac issues, and stabilise patients long-term.
Advanced Emergency Procedures
Perform wound closure (suturing, stapling), administer injections, and manage medical equipment on board.
Coordination with Shoreside Medical Services
Use TMAS protocols to communicate with doctors and implement care under remote guidance.
Prolonged Care & Nursing Onboard
Develop treatment plans for serious conditions, prevent infection, and maintain detailed medical records.
0
100
What’s Included
Professional-grade medical equipment
Comprehensive course materials
Daily hot lunch
Coffee station and snacks
Free rescheduling up to 7 days before course start
PREREQUSITES
Minimum age
16 years old
Valid Medical First Aid (A-VI/4-1) certificate required
Certificate must be issued by a maritime authority of an IMO White List country
If MFA is expired, candidate must have 6 months of documented sea service within the last 5 years or retake MFA before enrolling
Meet Your
Instructors
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is the Medical Care (MC) course?
Medical Care (MC) is an advanced STCW medical qualification for senior crew and officers who are designated to take full medical responsibility onboard. It prepares you to manage serious illness or injury at sea until professional medical assistance or evacuation is available.
Who issues and recognises the Medical Care certificate?
The MC certificate is issued in accordance with Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) standards and complies with STCW 2010 Manila Amendments. MCA-approved Medical Care certification is internationally recognised and accepted by flag states, yacht operators, insurers, and maritime authorities worldwide.
Who is required to hold a Medical Care certificate?
Medical Care is required for masters, chief mates, and officers who are designated to be medically responsible onboard. On many commercial yachts and vessels, at least one senior officer must hold a valid MC certificate at all times.
Do I need Medical First Aid (MFA) before taking MC?
Yes. Medical First Aid (MFA) is normally a prerequisite for Medical Care. MC builds on MFA knowledge and goes significantly deeper into diagnosis, treatment planning, and ongoing patient care at sea.
Is there an exam for Medical Care?
Yes. Medical Care includes a written exam covering advanced medical theory, diagnostics, medications, and emergency procedures. The questions are scenario-based and reflect real onboard medical situations rather than academic medicine.
Is there a practical assessment?
Yes. You’ll be assessed during extensive practical medical scenarios, including patient examination, advanced CPR, use of onboard medical equipment, administering medication, and managing prolonged care situations. Assessment focuses on judgement, accuracy, and calm decision-making.
What happens if I fail the exam or practical assessment?
If you don’t meet the required standard, you are allowed to take a resit. Instructors will explain what needs improvement before the retake. The course is designed to ensure competence and safety, not to fail candidates unnecessarily.
Do I need to update or refresh the Medical Care certificate?
Yes. Medical Care certificates must be refreshed every five years in accordance with STCW and MCA requirements. To remain compliant, you must complete an MCA-approved Medical Care Refresher before the certificate expires.
How long is the Medical Care certificate valid for?
The Medical Care (MC) certificate is valid for five years. After this period, refresher training is mandatory to maintain legal compliance and ensure medical competence onboard.
How important is English for the Medical Care course?
English is critical — both written and verbal. You must understand complex medical terminology, follow detailed instructions, complete written exams in English, and communicate clearly with shore-based doctors and emergency services during real incidents.