Page 23 - Volume 15 Number 1

12Tips
AIRMAN’S MEDICAL CERTIFICATE
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by Quay Snyder, MD, MSPH www.AviationMedicine.com
Pilots must possess two certificates to fly: their pilot certificate and their airman’s medical certificate. The pilot certificate is issued for life. The medical certificate requires renewal every 6-60 months depending on the pilot’s age and class of certificate. By taking a proactive approach to individual health and medical certification, pilots can protect their airman’s medical certificate. Being knowledgeable about FAA medical policies is analogous to being familiar with the instrument approach to a familiar airport. If you are unfamiliar or not current, you should study carefully, approach with caution and seek the advice of a knowledgeable resource.
This article is designed to provide general guidance to pilots approaching their FAA medical application and examination. Individual medical conditions and medications may require more specific advice and lead-time to maintain medical certification.
1. Establish a long-
term relationship with an Aviation Medi- cal Examiner (AME).
An AME who knows you and your medical history well and who is also willing to make the extra effort to help you keep your medical certificate is an invaluable resource. Many times, the convenience of
scheduling an appointment for a physical on short notice will save you time or missed flying days. Medical problems that have been previously addressed will be familiar to this AME and not be a source of anxiety for you or your AME when you report them on your medical application. Additionally, the AME will have a file of all correspondence to and from the FAA regarding your
JANUARY 2011
­TWIN & TURBINE • ­21