It was once again time for my FAA flight physical and I was nervous...
I was concerned that my schwannoma would create an issue.
So, I arrived at the AME armed and ready. I had used AOPA's wonderful TurboMedical (http://www.aopa.org/medical) to fill out the 8500-8 Application for Airman Medical Certificate. I had a letter from my family physician stating that my blood pressure and cholesterol were well controlled, along with a record of my blood pressure readings and a copy of my last EKG. I also had a letter from the neurologist which summarized his findings and stated that he saw no reason why I could not fly. Just in case, I had my full schwannoma medical history, which I left in the car. It contained all of the various reports, but I figured it was better not to bring that in, unless I had to. Sometimes too much information can raise flags and be a bad thing.
Generally, I would rather be over prepared than under prepared. This turned out to be the case. The AME still had a copy of my prior information, and was satisfied with my explanations. The fact that my blood pressure was 120/82 (which shocked me as I figured it would be high given the circumstances) probably helped.
I still am a bit nervous that one day I will find a letter in the mail from the FAA informing me that they have reviewed my file and have some concerns about the schwannoma, but if they do, I am ready - in duplicate.
In the mean time... Yippee!
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Posted by David at July 25, 2008 01:52 AM