France - Ebola Test on board ships

Under the International Labour Organization’s Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), port states must ensure that seafarers on board ships in their territory who are in need of immediate medical care are given access to medical facilities on shore.

​The IMO in its Circular Letter No.4204/Add.35 14 December 2020 announces that, at the time of issuing the letter, 46 States have designated seafarers as key workers.

On 11 September 2020, the IMO posted a Joint Statement by the United Nations Specialized Agencies calling on all Governments to immediately recognise seafarers as key workers and to take swift and effective action to eliminate obstacles to crew changes.

The UK Club has negotiated distinct access to a specialist marine telemedicine service with BlueMed, which UK Club Members can access on a "pay as you go" basis for non-emergency advice.