What is an Aerospace Medicine specialist?

An Aerospace Medicine specialist is a doctor who cares for pilots, air traffic controllers, and others involved in aviation and space travel. They understand how flight and space environments affect the human body.

Do I need to see an Aerospace Medicine specialist for an FAA medical certificate?

Yes, you generally need to see an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), who is a type of Aerospace Medicine specialist, to obtain or renew your FAA medical certificate.

What medical conditions might prevent me from getting an aviation certificate?

Certain conditions like uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, or some mental health disorders may affect your certification. An AME can help you understand the requirements.

How often do I need an FAA medical exam?

The frequency depends on your age and the class of medical certificate you hold, typically every one to five years.

Can an Aerospace Medicine doctor help with motion sickness?

Yes, they can diagnose and recommend treatments or strategies to help manage motion sickness and other common flight-related symptoms.

Are virtual visits possible with an Aerospace Medicine specialist?

While initial FAA medical exams require an in-person visit, some follow-up appointments or consultations for general health concerns might be offered via telehealth.

Find a Aerospace Medicine Near You

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Are you a pilot, flight attendant, air traffic controller, or someone involved with space travel? Then you know how important your health is to your job. Aerospace medicine doctors, often called aviation medical examiners (AMEs), are specially trained to understand the unique health challenges that come with flying and working in space. They make sure you are healthy enough to perform your duties safely and effectively.

These experts focus on how the environment of flying and space affects the human body. This includes things like changes in air pressure, feeling dizzy, or how stress impacts your health when you're high above the ground. They help you get and keep the important medical certifications needed for your profession. Whether you need a routine check-up for your license or have a specific health concern related to your work in the air or in space, finding the right aerospace medicine specialist is key to your career and your well-being. Use our helpful directory to find an expert near you today.

Conditions treated

Motion sickness
Fatigue from flying
Ear and sinus issues
Vision changes
High blood pressure
Diabetes management
Mental health concerns
Sleep disorders

Common procedures

FAA medical exams
DOT physicals
EKG testing
Vision screening
Hearing evaluations
Altitude chamber tests
Stress management support
Immunizations advice

When to see a aerospace medicine

You need an FAA medical certificate.
You are experiencing fatigue or sleep problems related to flying.
You have ear pressure or sinus pain when flying.
You notice changes in your vision or hearing.
You have a chronic health condition and need aviation medical advice.
You are planning a space-related mission.
You feel stressed or anxious about your aviation duties.

First visit

During your first visit, an aerospace medicine specialist will review your medical history and perform a thorough physical exam. They will also discuss any specific concerns you have related to your aviation or space-related duties and conduct necessary tests for your certification.

Typical cost

Out-of-pocket costs for an aerospace medicine visit can range from $150-$400 without insurance, but your insurance may cover a portion if it's for a medical condition.

Insurance

Many insurance plans cover visits for medical conditions, but FAA medical certification exams are often not covered and may be an out-of-pocket expense.