Use AOPA Resources To Avoid Deferral
The FAA has all but eliminated the
backlog of special issuance medical certificates by pulling in
staff resources to clear out the queue. But FAA Office of Aerospace
Medicine sources have told AOPA that while that backlog was
significantly reduced, that resource concentration means the delay
in issuing deferred medical certificates is now up to about 120
days.
But there is plenty that you can do to keep your medical
certificate out of that queue.
"Pilots really need to be informed consumers when they renew
their medical certificates," said Gary Crump, AOPA director of
medical certification. "We've seen many cases where medicals were
needlessly deferred to Oklahoma City, and that meant the pilots had
unnecessary delays before they could fly."
Here's what happens. For most pilots, the AME (aviation medical
examiner) issues the medical certificate on the spot. No problems,
no delays.
In some cases, however, the pilot might have a medical condition
that the AME isn't quite sure about, so the doctor defers the case
to FAA's Aeromedical branch in Oklahoma City. The medical goes in
the queue, and the pilot waits until the overloaded case examiners
can get to it.
"So you need to do everything you can to make sure your case
isn't deferred," said Crump. "Start with AOPA's TurboMedical online
form."
TurboMedical can identify many problem areas before you walk
into the doctor's office, and it will refer you to more resources
so that you can get the documentation you need to avoid a deferral.
You can also discuss your case with the medical certification
specialists in the AOPA Pilot Information Center
(800/USA-AOPA).
"Go to the AME armed with the information to show that your
medical condition does not require a deferral," said Crump. "In
fact, sometimes it's helpful to call the doctor beforehand to
discuss your concerns."
If the AME tells you he's going to
defer your medical to the FAA, encourage him to call the Regional
Flight Surgeon or a case examiner in Oklahoma City. Frequently that
quick consultation will result in the medical being issued on the
spot.
Crump also encouraged pilots to seek out an AME who is
passionate about aviation and will be a willing advocate for the
pilot. AOPA recently updated its AME list to show what pilot
certificates the doctor holds.
"You can have a big influence on whether you get your medical
certificate now or have to wait," Crump said. "Use your AOPA
resources to help you. It can make a big difference."