Mayo Clinic Clear Approach

Send us Fan Mail On this episode, we discuss a pilot who was charged with making false statements on the FAA medical application form and what implications that might have including possible jail time or fines.  How does one balance the need to be complete with that of unnecessary worry about missing a non-relevant medical visit?

Send us Fan Mail On this episode, we review the recently announced FAA strategy for hiring more air traffic controllers -- all while addressing the first pollen burst of the year and how pilots can navigate using antihistamines and other medications without jeopardizing their medical certificate.

Send us Fan Mail At the latest AME Grand Rounds, medical examiners heard updates from the FAA regarding a recent listening session in which a variety of aviation-related organizations provided insight into how the FAA's medical divisions could improve -- and they're listening.  On this episode, we review the updates from the latest information session provided to AMEs by the agency, plus...

Send us Fan Mail Although a very common condition,  the presence of glucose intolerance or what the FAA calls "pre-diabetes" can result in medical certification --  and in some cases, does not even require Special Issuance Authorization.  What are the newer drugs allowed and what is required to obtain or keep your medical certificate?

Send us Fan Mail The Human Intervention and Motivational Study, also known as the HIMS Program is an occupational substance abuse treatment program dedicated to helping all pilots return to the cockpit or flight deck. HIMS-trained AMEs, neuropsychologists, and psychiatrists in conjunction with employers, union representatives, and other support organizations work together to evaluate and support p...

Send us Fan Mail Episodes of syncope or loss of consciousness can result from something as simple as a brief fainting episode -- up to the level of a severe head injury.  How it's documented and the testing required for FAA purposes can be critical. On this episode, we discuss the aeromedical implications of syncope and stand down times depending on the various severity of head injuries as we...

Send us Fan Mail On this episode we review the technology of coronary artery CT scanning and CT angiography. Although used as an effective screening tool for certain individuals, is this imaging something that pilots should pursue?  What happens if an elevated coronary calcium score is identified?  Will a pilot still be able to retain their medical certificate, and how much additional testing migh...

Send us Fan Mail The FAA medical application, Form 8500-8, is completed electronically through the electronic platform called MedXPress. Are you ready for your next flight physical? What potential pitfalls are there with filling out the application form and how can you prevent those? We cover some of the most common applicant questions as well as places on the form that pilots can potentially get...

Send us Fan Mail On this episode, we review aeromedical certification consequences of passing kidney stones.  Major issue or just a "small pebble" in the shoe of a long aviation career?  Plus, we break down the new Air Force One Boeing 747 plagued by delays and cost overruns.

Send us Fan Mail On this episode we cover some of the topics discussed at the recent FAA aviation medical examiner grand rounds such as more information on color vision screening and CACI qualification for "low T," and we meet the newest addition to the Mayo Clinic aeromedical team.

Send us Fan Mail From stories of a pilot getting knocked out by a wild horse while walking along a beach to discussing the details of aeromedical certification with bladder cancer, this episode has a little bit of everything.

Send us Fan Mail On this episode, we discuss bundle branch block and what is required if a heart transplant is required for severe cardiac disease.  What is bundle branch block? Is it a deal breaker? And is it even possible to get a medical if a pilot experiences a condition that requires a heart transplant?

Send us Fan Mail On this episode, we discuss what pilots need to be prepared for after undergoing heart valve repair or replacement.  How long is the stand down time?  What tests are needed? What should the cardiologists say in their note in order to avoid sabotaging the chances for a medical certificate?

Send us Fan Mail On this episode, we look at a common condition unfortunately experienced by many pilots -- whether flying recreationally or for a living -- coronary artery disease.  What tests are needed and how can a pilot be adequately prepared through the process of obtaining a Special Issuance Authorization?  Do you really need to get a coronary angiogram after a stent is placed?  What type o...

Send us Fan Mail It's not just the crazy weather headaches to tackle, but some pilots deal with chronic and sometimes severe headaches that can affect aeromedical certification.  On this episode, we discuss what medications are allowed by the FAA, which are not, and how best to report chronic headaches during the flight physical. 

Send us Fan Mail Last month, the FAA announced changes in screening for color vision deficiency.  On this episode we discuss what pilots will be directly affected and address some of the common questions being asked right now by our patients and aviation medical examiners across the country. What tests will be allowed? What happens if my AME doesn't have one of the new approved computer-based...

Send us Fan Mail Mayo Clinic's Section of Transportation Medicine was joined recently by U.S. Air Force flight surgeon and FAA Senior AME Dr. Sheyna Gifford. On this episode of the podcast, she discusses her philosophies and approaches to a successful flight physical -- and the importance of professionalism in pursuing an aviation career. 

Send us Fan Mail On this episode, we review changes coming to color vision screening for pilots after January 1, 2025, plus chat with Mayo Clinic optometrist Dr. Muriel Schornack to learn more about everything eyes -- from glaucoma suspects to aviators with cool glasses.

Send us Fan Mail This week the FAA announced significant changes in screening for color vision deficiency, and also declared a change in how the agency will interface with pilots in the future -- expect more denial letters coming in the mail after the first of the year.

Send us Fan Mail On this episode we take a look at the current updates on Basic Med announced this past week by the FAA, and also look at a new "fast track" process for adjustment disorder that may allow pilots originally having to go through an extended mental health evaluation be rapidly certified by their aviation medical examiner.

Send us Fan Mail Hemochromatosis is an iron storage disease that affects not only the liver, but also the heart, kidneys, and central nervous system.  Although not the most common condition, it is often associated with a genetic abnormality -- and those with the gene are typically unaware of it until middle-age.  The key is in screening for it --  before it becomes a significant medical problem. ...

Send us Fan Mail Male hypogonadism, otherwise known as "low T" is a common diagnosis received by adult males, including those who operate aircraft.  Many medical providers who prescribe testosterone supplements do not "speak airplane," making aeromedical certification challenging in certain cases.  What does it take to obtain or maintain a medical certificate when prescribed su...

Send us Fan Mail Ever wonder what can be annoying to your aviation medical examiner?  On this episode, we pick a few favorites and jokingly review the top "pet peeves" on the list.

Send us Fan Mail Although a relatively rare type of cancer, testicular carcinoma affects thousands of individuals each year.  On this episode, we discuss what it is and what is required for aeromedical certification.

Send us Fan Mail Although breast cancer can be devastating for any individual being diagnosed with the disease, the aeromedical certification process has come full circle and allowed for pilots to obtain their medical certificates relatively easily with appropriate preparation and documentation of clinical stability.