Genuine Care, AlwaysBasic Med
The AOPA has dedicated years of effort on behalf of its members to achieve third class medical reform, now recognized by the FAA as BasicMed. To support this initiative, AOPA has created a comprehensive set of online resources designed to assist both pilots and physicians in fully utilizing these reforms and maintaining the freedom to fly.
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What is BasicMed?
BasicMed is an alternative pathway to traditional FAA medical certification for pilots. Instead of undergoing an examination by an aviation medical examiner, pilots opting for BasicMed collaborate with a state-licensed physician. The process involves completing a comprehensive medical checklist every four years, followed by taking an online course on various aeromedical topics every two years.
BasicMed comes with its own set of privileges and limitations, similar to other types of medical certifications. Pilots flying under BasicMed are restricted to operating aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight of 6,000 pounds, accommodating no more than six occupants, including the pilot. These aircraft can be flown at speeds up to 250 knots and at altitudes up to 18,000 feet mean sea level (MSL), during both day and night conditions.
This alternative certification pathway allows pilots to continue enjoying their flying privileges while adhering to necessary medical and safety standards.
1. Previous FAA Medical Certificate: You must have held at least one valid FAA medical certificate since July 14, 2006. Additionally, your most recent medical certificate must not have been revoked or denied.
2. Recent Medical Certificate: If you held a medical certificate that was valid on or after July 14, 2006, you do not need to see an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). However, if your most recent medical certificate expired before that date or if you have never held an FAA medical certificate, you must see an AME and obtain a one-time third-class medical certificate.
3. Special Issuance for Certain Conditions: If you develop certain medical conditions, the FAA requires you to obtain a one-time special-issuance medical certificate. This is necessary to ensure that your medical condition does not compromise flight safety.
1. Physical Examination:
•State-Licensed Physician: Schedule and complete a physical exam with a state-licensed physician.
•FAA Checklist: The physician must use and sign the FAA’s Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC).
2. Online Aeromedical Self-Assessment Course:
•Complete the Course: Take an online self-assessment course covering aeromedical factors.
•Submit Data: Upon completing the course, upload the necessary data to the FAA.
More about Basic Med
What Happens During Basic Med?
The BasicMed medical examination process is designed to ensure that pilots meet the necessary health standards to safely operate an aircraft. Here’s a detailed step-by-step breakdown of what you can expect during this examination:
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Vital Signs: The physician will check your vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature.
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Vision and Hearing: Your vision and hearing will be tested to ensure they meet the necessary standards for safe flight.
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Cardiovascular Examination: The physician will listen to your heart and lungs to check for any abnormalities. They may also check for signs of cardiovascular issues, such as heart murmurs or irregular heartbeats.
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Neurological Examination: A basic neurological examination will be conducted to assess your reflexes, coordination, and overall neurological function.
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General Physical Check: The physician will perform a general physical examination, checking your overall health and looking for any signs of medical conditions that could impact your ability to fly.
What should I bring for Basic Med?
When preparing for a BasicMed examination, it’s important to bring certain documents and information to ensure the process goes smoothly. Here’s a checklist of what you should bring:
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Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC): Fill out the pilot portion of the CMEC before your appointment. This includes your personal information and detailed medical history. The form is available on the FAA website or through aviation organizations like AOPA.
- Photo ID: Bring a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) to verify your identity.
Our Commitment to Safety
To date, more than 64,000 pilots have completed the online education course to qualify for BasicMed. This course, available through AOPA online and the Mayo Clinic, covers various aeromedical topics crucial for safe flying under BasicMed.
The process to qualify under BasicMed is straightforward, but it differs enough from traditional medical certification that pilots should take a few minutes to familiarize themselves with the steps.
Taking the time to understand and comply with these requirements ensures you maintain your legal and medical fitness to fly.
Let's do it right!Basic Med Instructions
Step 1:
Get The BasicMed FAA CMEC Form
Check your eligibility for BasicMed and obtain the BasicMed FAA Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC). Then, proceed to fill out the self-assessment section of the form.
Step 2:
See Your Doctor
Retrieve your Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist from Step 1 and undergo a BasicMed-specific examination with a state-licensed physician. Have your doctor complete the remaining sections of the exam checklist. This document will be required for Step 3 and for your 24-month renewal process.
Step 3:
Take The Online Course
After obtaining your FAA Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC) from a state-licensed physician, proceed to complete this online course and successfully pass the quiz. Following the course, fill out the post-course form to submit your examination details (from Step 2) to the FAA. This will enable you to receive your BasicMed completion certificate.
Step 4:
File Documents in Your Logbook
Be sure to download and retain your course completion certificate alongside your completed Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC), either in your logbook or electronically. It should be readily available upon request from the FAA. Ensure you also possess a valid flight review before taking to the skies!
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Northwest Aviation Medicine specializes in a range of specialized medical consultations tailored to specific certification requirements. This encompasses FAA medical examinations, DOT/FMCSA/CDL exams designed specifically for commercial drivers, and Pre-Participation Exams for various sports and activities.
Our experienced team is dedicated to providing thorough and reliable medical evaluations, ensuring individuals meet the precise criteria for their intended certifications.
We take pride in our flexibility and are delighted to accommodate any specific requests you may have when filling out our contact form.
We go the extra mile to guide you through the process and address any potential issues, ensuring you walk out of our office with the certification you need.
If there are any pre-existing conditions that may potentially hinder you from obtaining your desired certification, we’d be more than happy to discuss and assist in addressing them. With a focus on accuracy and efficiency, we are committed to your success in obtaining the certifications you require.
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