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The SSI Adapted Scuba Course is designed to provide diver training and certification for people with physical disabilities, and the adapted course is the same SSI Open Water Diver Course with additional training depending upon level of impairment. The bottom line is a common goal to produce safe, competent, confident divers.
Depending upon the extent to which their physical disabilities affect performance, a student with disabilities may qualify as an SSI Open Water Diver, an SSI Adapted Diver or as an SSI Escorted Diver. The Adapted Scuba Course is based upon the inclusive training concept, which encourages students with disabilities to learn to scuba dive together with their able-bodied friends or relatives. Inclusive training creates a more enjoyable learning environment, and permits able-bodied students to acquire the necessary skills, knowledge and confidence to become natural diving companions to divers with disabilities.
Medical Considerations:
Before a student is allowed to participate in scuba training, unconditional medical authorization must be provided in writing. The medical form is to be signed by a licensed medical practitioner who is familiar with the student's medical history, and the standard RSTC Medical Statement and Guidelines for the Recreational Scuba Diver's Physical Examination must be used. Disabled or not, any person with severe risk conditions is not eligible to participate in SSI scuba courses.
