Why do I need a pool certificate, how do I get it for an adult and a child?
Going to the pool is one of the most popular ways to keep fit. To start swimming, you must obtain a medical certificate confirming the absence of contraindications and infectious diseases. Where and how to get a certificate, which doctors and tests are included in the mandatory list in 2025, tell Izvestia.
Why do I need a pool certificate?
A medical certificate to the pool is not a formality, but an effective mechanism for protecting the health of visitors. Its main function is to reduce the risk of the spread of infections transmitted by water and contact. These include, first of all, fungal diseases of the skin and nails, molluscum contagiosum, scabies, as well as some intestinal infections, such as dysentery.
According to sanitary regulations, a certificate is mandatory for children of preschool and primary school age up to 10-11 years old, whose immune system is more vulnerable. In addition, a certificate is needed for everyone who is involved in sports clubs and swimming schools on a regular basis, which is regulated by the federal law "On Physical Culture and Sports."
A separate requirement is introduced by regional authorities in the event of a deterioration in the sanitary and epidemiological situation, for example, during a surge in the incidence of enterovirus infections or the threat of the spread of other diseases.
Where to get help for the pool
In 2025, there are several options for obtaining an official certificate. The procedure has become more standardized, which simplifies the process.
First, you need to visit the state polyclinic at the place of attachment. You must have a valid compulsory medical insurance (CHI) policy with you. Admission is based on coupons, so you should make an appointment in advance.
In addition to the state clinic, you can apply for a certificate at a private licensed medical center. This method is popular because it saves time. The certificate is often issued on the day of application. The cost of the service varies depending on the clinic and the region.
You can also get help directly from the pool. A number of fitness clubs and water parks provide an examination service by their own or invited health worker. However, such a document is valid only for visits to a specific institution and is not valid in other pools.
Responsibility for forgery of the certificate
In an effort to save time, some citizens resort to buying ready-made certificates. It should be remembered that such a "service" is illegal. The use of a deliberately forged document falls under Article 327 of the Criminal Code (CC) of the Russian Federation. The penalty is a fine of up to 80 thousand rubles.
How to get a pool certificate for an adult
The process of obtaining a certificate may take some time — from several days to a week. It includes seeing a therapist and taking tests. The standard list, according to current requirements, includes:
- scraping for enterobiosis;
- analysis of feces for helminth eggs;
- a certificate from the therapist.
In some cases, the therapist may refer you to a dermatologist, venereologist, gynecologist, or urologist for additional examination. At the same time, the certificate itself in the form 083/4-89 is issued only by the therapist.
It is important to note that for adults, obtaining a certificate to the pool is not included in the basic compulsory health insurance program — for most citizens this is a paid service.
Help for visiting the pool for a child
The registration of a child's certificate is free, but it has its own peculiarities and requires a more thorough approach. The algorithm is similar to an adult, but the list of specialists can be expanded. To receive the document, parents need to contact their local pediatrician or the office for issuing certificates and referrals, where they will receive referrals for the necessary tests.
The standard kit includes scraping for enterobiosis and stool analysis for helminth eggs. In some cases, a dermatologist will be required to rule out skin diseases. For younger children, a neurologist's opinion is often required. The certificate must be submitted to a sports school or a children's swimming section.
Since 2024, a pilot project has been launched in a number of Russian regions, including Moscow, to convert medical certificates for sections and clubs into electronic format. This means that after the examination, the data is entered into a single medical information system, and a paper certificate may not be required. Meanwhile, it is better to clarify the format of the requirements in the pool itself.
What else do you need to visit the pool
In addition to a medical certificate, for a comfortable and safe visit to the pool, you must purchase a swimsuit or swimming trunks, a cap and goggles for swimming, a change of shoes, as well as a separate towel and soap.
Rules of behavior in the pool:
- before entering the water, you need to take a shower with detergents.;
- Keep quiet and do not interfere with other visitors.;
- Follow the instructions of your coach or instructor.;
- do not run on the detour track to avoid falling on the wet floor.;
- Do not visit the pool if you feel unwell or have any infectious diseases.
Earlier, Izvestia reported that Russia has updated state standards for children's pools.
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