Ask the AME

I wasn’t sure whether to dive right into a topic or introduce myself first. I love covering a lot of ground, but why trust my opinion until you know who I am, right? So here goes. I’m a new Senior Aviation Medical examiner (AME) based in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. I moved here six years ago and have been practicing internal Medicine for almost 20 years. Over the years, I’ve often listened to my husband talk about the FAA and the flight physicals pilots undergo. He always seemed stressed out by them, which fascinated me. Why are pilots so anxious about a physical? 

As the years went by, I noticed the same pattern among our pilot friends. They would stress over any ailment or, worse, ignore symptoms of illness out of fear of losing their medical certification. This pattern hit home when we nearly lost a friend to stage 4 colon cancer in their 50s because they chose to ignore the signs rather than risk their medical certification. I knew this had to change. 

Earlier this year, I decided to become an AME. I’m 15 years younger than the average AME and part of a small percentage of male AMEs. So, what else sets me apart? My journey began with the perspective of a commercial pilot. 

I spent months researching what makes this exam so intimidating. What information could I share to help ease pilots’ tension? How could I empower them to live healthy lives? How could I help pilots navigate the process when medical conditions arose? 

I started by asking the pilots themselves. My husband was first, followed by numerous pilot friends of all ages and medical classes. I compiled a list of trusted local specialists I’ve worked with over the years to ensure pilots had access to care when needed. I also created a schedule to address pilots’ concerns whenever they need me. 

In October, I traveled to Oklahoma to complete my training, filled with excitement. Believe it or not, the FAA offers many avenues for pilots to continue flying safely, even when medical conditions arise. I returned ready to take the next steps. I made time to visit flight schools and give talks. I attended pilot association meetings, answering questions from those who might otherwise have been afraid to ask their own AME. 

I also quickly found The Ninety-Nines and am so glad I did. I felt welcomed into this elite group of women and can’t wait to contribute! 

I plan to continue writing articles that touch on the examination process, disease management, FAA procedures, and anything else this amazing community needs. I want to make it my mission to guide you through the process and get you back to doing what you love. My ultimate goal is to empower healthy living for a lifetime of flying. 

Thank you for having me and join me next time for a deep dive into the examination process.