I booked an open water certification course and was told that the class required a medical release. I went to my doctor and got a full physical. Based on my medical history my doctor cleared me for diving. I spent nearly $400 in required equipment from Scuba Toys, then several hours at home on the course work and written exam.
On the first day class, I was pulled outside the classroom and told that my doctor's approval was insufficient and I would not be allowed to participate in the class until I visited a pulmonologist who is affiliated with the Diver Alert Network. I was disappointed, angry, and embarrassed by this confrontation. The pulmonologist's office told me the first available appointment was in 4 weeks and that the tests they would run would not be covered by my medical insurance. Completely unacceptable.
I went back to Scuba Toys the same day to get a refund for the class since their doctor requirement was unworkable. I asked to speak to the manager, Joe, whom I told about the situation, that I didn't understand why these extra-NAUI requirements were undocumented, and that if they would not accept my doctor's release I would need a refund. Joe told us that he would give me a refund (less the cost of the workbooks) if I was "going to be shitty about it" but that first he would call my doctor to verify that he is qualified to sign the medical waiver. My doctor refused to argue his credentials with Joe and HIPAA regulations prevented him from discussing my medical history.
After several days of no un-returned phone calls, I went back to the shop to demand a full refund. Joe had spoken to his insurance and lawyers who told him he couldn't dictate which doctors gave valid medical opinions. I ended up making up the first two days of class on weekday evenings so I didn't miss the open water portion at the lake.
I will not spend another dime at Scuba Toys. Due to their arbitrary rules and the manager's horrible customer service they have lost two dual income, no kids customers for life
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