Illnesses such as diabetes, hernias and gout that result in seafarers taking time off due to health reasons can easily be avoided through a PEME Quality Assurance Programme, says leading wellbeing provider OneCare Group.

The health and wellbeing service that has relaunched as the OneCare Group, with Marine Medical Solutions (MMS), Mental Health Support Solutions (MHSS) and OneLearn Global (OLG), as members, is highlighting the importance of a healthy crew on Day of the Seafarer.

This year the International Maritime Organization (IMO) campaign is focussing on seafarers’ contribution to making the maritime sector a safer workplace.

OCG has revealed that the highest number of medical disembarkation cases are down to pulmonary issues, which include seafarers suffering from the effects from Long Covid, followed by gastroenterology and musculoskeletal issues.

OneCare Group provides 360 degrees of support services for seafarers, including mental health support with a 24/7 helpline to trained maritime psychologists; mental health training;  holistic health care programmes including PEME Quality Assurance Plans; 24/7 access to an experience medical team; medical referrals in different ports of call and management of P&I medical claims. OCG also provides  a wide range of online training courses and material through eLearning provider OLG.

Marinos Kokkinis, Managing Director at OCG, said: “When a crew member has to disembark due to health issues, it results in unexpected costs for the shipping operator. By offering a preventative Quality Assurance Programme at the PEME level there is a much higher chance that health issues can be picked up earlier, medically reviewed and supported accordingly either before embarkation and / or while the Seafarer is onboard.

“On this Day of the Seafarer, it is important to show our appreciation to all crew members for their hard work and the daily sacrifices they make to keep our industry going. But our gratitude shouldn’t just be saved for one day a year. We must show them we care – investment into their health and wellbeing is crucial to ensuring a happy, healthy and loyal workforce.”