FAA Mental Health ExamsMENTAL HEALTH EXAMINATIONS
Dr. William Healey has performed psychiatric evaluations of pilots needing mental health clearance
for medical re-certification for more than 20 years.
for medical re-certification for more than 20 years.
THE PROCESS: In order for pilots to be medically re-certified in a recovery situation, from alcohol, substances or a mental health disorder, the FAA requires treating professionals to be in agreement that return to flight status is appropriate. The process includes a formal psychiatric evaluation and in most cases psychological testing. The link below, to the HIMS website, will be useful in clarifying certification information and providing a time line.
1. A psychiatric evaluation is required. For your evaluation, you will be asked to provide records relating to your condition, and possibly to fill out a few questionnaires to bring with you to your appointment. The evaluation takes about an hour; recommendations will be reviewed with you at the time of the appointment, and a report will be written. Dr. Healey will review this report with you for accuracy of details before it is sent on to your referring AME.
2. Routine psychological testing is usually required, and Dr. Healey can help facilitate finding a psychologist to administer the required tests. These tests typically take several hours. A list of some of the common tests is provided. Dr. Healey will review the report of these tests, and include them in his final report.
3. The finalized psychiatric and psychological reports are forwarded to your AME, who will review the records, provide a medical summary, and forward all the reports to the FAA for their determination on re-certification.
