What is a flying medical order, also known as a (Federal Aviation Administration) FAA medical certificate?

From the Guidelines

A flying medical order is required for passengers with certain medical conditions, and it is crucial to obtain medical clearance from the airline's medical department by submitting the Special Assistance Form (SAF) and Medical Information Form (MEDIF) forms, as stated in the IATA medical manual 1. To determine if a patient is fit to fly, the airline's medical department assesses the passenger's condition based on the IATA medical manual guidelines, which include factors such as contagious diseases, potential hazards or discomfort to other passengers, and medical conditions that may be adversely affected by the flight environment.

• The passenger's condition is evaluated to ensure it does not pose a risk to the safety of the flight or other passengers.
• The airline's medical department may request additional information or documentation, such as a Frequent Traveller's Medical Card (FREMEC), for passengers with stable medical conditions.
• It is essential to contact the airline's medical department in advance to obtain medical clearance and to ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted, as stated in the study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine in 2021 1.
• The medical clearance process involves assessing the passenger's ability to care for themselves during the flight and determining if any special assistance is required.
• The IATA medical manual provides guidelines for medical clearance, and airlines may have their own specific requirements, so it is crucial to check with the airline in advance to ensure all requirements are met.

From the Research

Flying Medical Order

• A flying medical order is not explicitly defined in the provided studies, but it can be inferred to refer to the medical guidance and instructions provided to patients before air travel.
• According to 2, advising patients before air travel is an important role of physicians, particularly for those with underlying pulmonary disease.
• The studies suggest that medical professionals should assess patients' fitness for air travel and provide individualized recommendations based on their medical conditions 2, 3, 4.

Medical Assessment for Air Travel

• The Hypoxia Altitude Simulation Test can be used to determine specific in-flight oxygen requirements for patients with pulmonary complications 3.
• Patients with certain medical conditions, such as pulmonary disease, cardiac symptoms, or recent surgery, may require special consideration before air travel 2, 5, 3, 4.
• Medical professionals should also consider the potential risks of deep venous thrombosis, decompression sickness, and other travel-related health issues 3, 4.

In-Flight Medical Emergencies

• In-flight medical emergencies can occur, and healthcare professionals may be called upon to provide care 5.
• The 1998 Aviation Medical Assistance Act provides liability protection for healthcare professionals acting as good Samaritans in in-flight medical emergencies 5.
• Airlines have resources and support systems in place to assist with in-flight medical emergencies, including first aid kits, emergency medical kits, and ground-based consultation services 5.