Clear Instructions, Ed Resources, Requirements On Medical Conditions

The National Aviation Business Association expressed satisfaction about recent upgrades implemented on the FAA’s MedXpress website to assist pilots getting ready for the next visit with their AME, or aviation medical examiner, to renew their medical certificate.

A comprehensive “Know Before You Go” document walks applicants through the steps necessary to prepare for the AME exam. This includes gathering medical records that must be submitted as well as any guidance on post-exam procedures that might be necessary.

There are clear instructions on how to use the system, including a tab for frequently asked questions or FAQ. The landing page contains a variety of educational resources and info on FAA requirements pertaining to a wide range of common medical conditions.

Dr. Susan Northrup, FAA Federal Air Surgeon, said in a message announcing the changes, “This is the first of many steps we plan to implement to make the process clearer and faster.”

There are descriptive tables showing how the FAA and AME may address many conditions, and also provide AMEs guidance for submitting required information and exam results within the required 14-day timeframe.

Mark Larsen, CAM, NBAA Director for Safety and Flight Operations, said, “These new resources are really about helping you to help yourself. Unless you had been through the process before, applicants were often unaware of all that was involved in addressing specific conditions. Having this new information, all in one place, offers greater clarity and the comfort of knowing what to expect when applying for, or renewing, your medical certificate.”

The FAA anticipates further improvements to the MedXpress website, and other resources available include a medical exam checklist developed by NBAA and others. The FAA’s Pilot Minute online learning series provides additional clarity into the often-intimidating process.

Larsen added, “We thank the FAA and Dr. Northrup for making this valuable information accessible to our aviation community, and we look forward to continuing our work on this and other matters affecting pilot health and medical certification.”

FMI:  medxpress.faa.gov/ , nbaa.org/