Dive shop in Hikkaduwa waved off the medical questionnaire — fill it honestly anyway or find another hut?

Fill every medical questionnaire honestly, or walk to another shop. A helper joking that you should tick no to save time is a red flag, not local colour. Reputable operators want accurate forms because depth and pressure are unforgiving; they would rather delay or adapt a dive than pretend. You do not owe a shrug culture your safety. If your history needs a doctor's clearance, get that — I will not invent what qualifies. Beginner reef dives are common in Hikkaduwa; good huts still do briefing, form, and gear checks without rushing. Polite exit: thanks, I will come back when the paperwork is done properly.