Best Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine Podcasts (2025)

1
Cheating on the FAA Medical Application Form 8500-8 (or Just an Oversight)?? 24:59

14d ago24:59

24:59

Send us a text On this episode, we discuss a pilot who was charged with making false statements on the FAA medical application form and what implications that might have including possible jail time or fines. How does one balance the need to be complete with that of unnecessary worry about missing a non-relevant medical visit?…

1
Spring Brings Pollen and a Push for Supercharging ATC Hiring 14:53

21d ago14:53

14:53

Send us a text On this episode, we review the recently announced FAA strategy for hiring more air traffic controllers -- all while addressing the first pollen burst of the year and how pilots can navigate using antihistamines and other medications without jeopardizing their medical certificate.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
The FAA is Listening: Do You Know About the "3Es?" 20:53

28d ago20:53

20:53

Send us a text At the latest AME Grand Rounds, medical examiners heard updates from the FAA regarding a recent listening session in which a variety of aviation-related organizations provided insight into how the FAA's medical divisions could improve -- and they're listening. On this episode, we review the updates from the latest information session…

1
FAA Certification for the "Baby Brother of Diabetes" -- Pre-Diabetes 13:24

1M ago13:24

13:24

Send us a text Although a very common condition, the presence of glucose intolerance or what the FAA calls "pre-diabetes" can result in medical certification -- and in some cases, does not even require Special Issuance Authorization. What are the newer drugs allowed and what is required to obtain or keep your medical certificate?…

1
HIMS -- Not just a Pronoun! 12:52

1M ago12:52

12:52

Send us a text The Human Intervention and Motivational Study, also known as the HIMS Program is an occupational substance abuse treatment program dedicated to helping all pilots return to the cockpit or flight deck. HIMS-trained AMEs, neuropsychologists, and psychiatrists in conjunction with employers, union representatives, and other support organ…

1
"I passed out and I have no idea what happened." Now what? 20:18

2M ago20:18

20:18

Send us a text Episodes of syncope or loss of consciousness can result from something as simple as a brief fainting episode -- up to the level of a severe head injury. How it's documented and the testing required for FAA purposes can be critical. On this episode, we discuss the aeromedical implications of syncope and stand down times depending on t…

1
Scanning the Heart with CT imaging: Good idea for pilots, or not? 17:01

2M ago17:01

17:01

Send us a text On this episode we review the technology of coronary artery CT scanning and CT angiography. Although used as an effective screening tool for certain individuals, is this imaging something that pilots should pursue? What happens if an elevated coronary calcium score is identified? Will a pilot still be able to retain their medical cer…

1
MedXPress or MedXSlow? You Make the Call 22:16

2M ago22:16

22:16

Send us a text The FAA medical application, Form 8500-8, is completed electronically through the electronic platform called MedXPress. Are you ready for your next flight physical? What potential pitfalls are there with filling out the application form and how can you prevent those? We cover some of the most common applicant questions as well as pla…

1
What Happens if Your Kidneys Get Stoned? 13:48

3M ago13:48

13:48

Send us a text On this episode, we review aeromedical certification consequences of passing kidney stones. Major issue or just a "small pebble" in the shoe of a long aviation career? Plus, we break down the new Air Force One Boeing 747 plagued by delays and cost overruns.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Another AME Joins the Mayo Team 14:55

3M ago14:55

14:55

Send us a text On this episode we cover some of the topics discussed at the recent FAA aviation medical examiner grand rounds such as more information on color vision screening and CACI qualification for "low T," and we meet the newest addition to the Mayo Clinic aeromedical team.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
So I was Walking Along the Beach Minding My Own Business When..... 14:59

3M ago14:59

14:59

Send us a text From stories of a pilot getting knocked out by a wild horse while walking along a beach to discussing the details of aeromedical certification with bladder cancer, this episode has a little bit of everything.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Broken Heart on Valentine's Day? How to Get Your FAA Medical With Bundle Branch Block or a Heart Transplant 18:10

3M ago18:10

18:10

Send us a text On this episode, we discuss bundle branch block and what is required if a heart transplant is required for severe cardiac disease. What is bundle branch block? Is it a deal breaker? And is it even possible to get a medical if a pilot experiences a condition that requires a heart transplant?…

1
What Happens After a Valve Job? 22:00

4M ago22:00

22:00

Send us a text On this episode, we discuss what pilots need to be prepared for after undergoing heart valve repair or replacement. How long is the stand down time? What tests are needed? What should the cardiologists say in their note in order to avoid sabotaging the chances for a medical certificate?…

1
My Achy Breaky Heart and the FAA 23:47

4M ago23:47

23:47

Send us a text On this episode, we look at a common condition unfortunately experienced by many pilots -- whether flying recreationally or for a living -- coronary artery disease. What tests are needed and how can a pilot be adequately prepared through the process of obtaining a Special Issuance Authorization? Do you really need to get a coronary a…

1
What a Headache! 12:25

4M ago12:25

12:25

Send us a text It's not just the crazy weather headaches to tackle, but some pilots deal with chronic and sometimes severe headaches that can affect aeromedical certification. On this episode, we discuss what medications are allowed by the FAA, which are not, and how best to report chronic headaches during the flight physical.…

1
The Questions Keep Coming -- New FAA Color Vision Rules for Pilots 19:06

4M ago19:06

19:06

Send us a text Last month, the FAA announced changes in screening for color vision deficiency. On this episode we discuss what pilots will be directly affected and address some of the common questions being asked right now by our patients and aviation medical examiners across the country. What tests will be allowed? What happens if my AME doesn't h…

1
There's a New Kid in Town (and it Isn't Santa!) 18:00

5M ago18:00

18:00

Send us a text Mayo Clinic's Section of Transportation Medicine was joined recently by U.S. Air Force flight surgeon and FAA Senior AME Dr. Sheyna Gifford. On this episode of the podcast, she discusses her philosophies and approaches to a successful flight physical -- and the importance of professionalism in pursuing an aviation career.…

1
The Eyes Have It -- Part 2 24:40

6M ago24:40

24:40

Send us a text On this episode, we review changes coming to color vision screening for pilots after January 1, 2025, plus chat with Mayo Clinic optometrist Dr. Muriel Schornack to learn more about everything eyes -- from glaucoma suspects to aviators with cool glasses.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Color Vision Testing Changes Are Coming Soon (and Expect More Denial Letters From the FAA on the Horizon) 19:42

6M ago19:42

19:42

Send us a text This week the FAA announced significant changes in screening for color vision deficiency, and also declared a change in how the agency will interface with pilots in the future -- expect more denial letters coming in the mail after the first of the year.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Is Basic Med Really That Basic? 11:40

6M ago11:40

11:40

Send us a text On this episode we take a look at the current updates on Basic Med announced this past week by the FAA, and also look at a new "fast track" process for adjustment disorder that may allow pilots originally having to go through an extended mental health evaluation be rapidly certified by their aviation medical examiner.…

1
An "Ironic" Liver Condition 13:47

7M ago13:47

13:47

Send us a text Hemochromatosis is an iron storage disease that affects not only the liver, but also the heart, kidneys, and central nervous system. Although not the most common condition, it is often associated with a genetic abnormality -- and those with the gene are typically unaware of it until middle-age. The key is in screening for it -- befor…

1
How to Keep Your Medical When You Are Diagnosed With Low T 12:25

7M ago12:25

12:25

Send us a text Male hypogonadism, otherwise known as "low T" is a common diagnosis received by adult males, including those who operate aircraft. Many medical providers who prescribe testosterone supplements do not "speak airplane," making aeromedical certification challenging in certain cases. What does it take to obtain or maintain a medical cert…

1
The Pet Peeves of AMEs 15:49

7M ago15:49

15:49

Send us a text Ever wonder what can be annoying to your aviation medical examiner? On this episode, we pick a few favorites and jokingly review the top "pet peeves" on the list.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Cancer Where It Counts 13:40

7M ago13:40

13:40

Send us a text Although a relatively rare type of cancer, testicular carcinoma affects thousands of individuals each year. On this episode, we discuss what it is and what is required for aeromedical certification.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Breast Cancer and Aeromedical Certification 16:15

8M ago16:15

16:15

Send us a text Although breast cancer can be devastating for any individual being diagnosed with the disease, the aeromedical certification process has come full circle and allowed for pilots to obtain their medical certificates relatively easily with appropriate preparation and documentation of clinical stability.…

1
Funnel Chest and Speech Impediments: Autumn has Arrived! 15:34

8M ago15:34

15:34

Send us a text On this episode, we discuss a couple of conditions not commonly seen in pilots but which can make a difference in terms of aeromedical certification. We look at pectus excavatum, otherwise known as "funnel chest," and how pilots with speech impediments can still qualify for their FAA medical certificate.…

1
Whole LADA Shakin' Goin' On 16:06

8M ago16:06

16:06

Send us a text LADA, or latent autoimmune diabetes of adults, is often misdiagnosed and is sometimes called "diabetes 1.5." On this episode, we'll review what LADA is, what to look for, and how it affects aeromedical certification.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Pace Yourself 12:56

9M ago12:56

12:56

Send us a text Pacemakers are amazing devices that can help regulate heart rhythms, synchronize arrhythmias, and can be career saving for certain pilots. On this episode, we discuss certification requirements for aviators who will need Special Issuance Authorization for pacemakers. A little preparation goes a long way.…

1
On Track to Stop the Plaque: Psoriasis and Aeromedical Certification 21:25

9M ago21:25

21:25

Send us a text Psoriasis is a chronic and incurable condition involving the skin that is sometime associated with arthritis and other autoimmune conditions. There are a variety of treatments for this disease and we discuss aeromedical implications to minimize delays in certification.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Headscratching Anecdotes Solved for You 18:02

9M ago18:02

18:02

Send us a text In the process of conducting dozens of flight physicals, there are questions that periodically come up when filling out the medical application form. On this episode, we review some of those head-scratching anecdotes and how to efficiently complete the process.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Ironman Pilots 13:50

9M ago13:50

13:50

Send us a text On this episode, we review aeromedical certification requirements for a relatively uncommon disease called hemochromatosis -- a condition that involves elevated iron levels in the blood that can result in liver failure and may affect multiple other organs. Screened and taken care of early, it is completely controllable but left unche…

1
Time for a valve job? 12:01

10M ago12:01

12:01

Send us a text In this episode, we go single pilot and cover one of the most common valvular heart issues -- mitral valve regurgitation. For stable established cases of mild severity, a pilot might not even need Special Issuance Authorization. CACI qualification is possible, and if appropriate testing is obtained ahead of the time of the flight phy…

1
Drones to Stones 26:41

10M ago26:41

26:41

Send us a text Drones, love 'em or hate 'em, are here to stay. The FAA announced groundbreaking approvals this week for commercial drone operations of delivery packages involving unmanned aircraft outside the sight line of drone operators -- paving the way for packages to be delivered remotely to your doorstep using drones operated by pilots miles …

1
Walking Through AirVenture, the Future of Aviation, and Hepatitis C 16:10

10M ago16:10

16:10

Send us a text On this episode, we reflect on EAA's AirVenture 2024, Boeing's forecast for the future of personnel needs in the field of aviation, and CACI qualification criteria for chronic Hepatitis C.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
S3 Ep.1 - Canadian Society of Aerospace Medicine 56:06

10M ago56:06

56:06

Join us for the opening episode of our new Season, where we hear from our partners at the Canadian Society of Aerospace Medicine. CSAM was set up in 2019 by pioneers in the field, from whom you hear today. Their stories highlight the range of careers within aerospace medicine and a breadth of experience. A high-reaching episode from passionate pion…

1
Don't Let High Blood Pressure Bring You Down 11:55

11M ago11:55

11:55

Send us a text One of the most common medical conditions encountered by pilots is elevated blood pressure. On this episode we discuss what is allowed for maximum blood pressure levels, what medications are approved, and the options available to pilots who find themselves dealing with hypertension.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Back on Track 14:58

11M ago14:58

14:58

Send us a text Mitch and Clay return from vacation and step back up to the Clear Approach podcast microphone. On this episode, they discuss updates to the FAA's approach to "uncomplicated" anxiety and depression, review the FAA streamlining efforts for re-certifying pilots with Special Issuance Authorization related to coronary artery disease and m…

1
Protect Your Beans -- Getting Certified With Chronic Kidney Disease 13:24

12M ago13:24

13:24

Send us a text Most of us take for granted the bean-shaped organs located along our flanks that are responsible for filtering the blood and maintaining fluid balance in the body. But what happens when things go wrong with the beans? How will this affect aeromedical certification for pilots? This episode covers current requirements for obtaining and…

1
Change is in the Air! Streamlining is Coming to the Certification Process 13:51

12M ago13:51

13:51

Send us a text Several announcements this week to FAA aviation medical examiners by the agency will significantly decrease the burden on pilots with certain uncomplicated mental health conditions, eliminate the need for exercise stress tests for renewal of Special Issuance Authorization for pilots with coronary artery disease -- and other streamlin…

1
Is it a Shakedown -- or Just Essential Tremor? 13:21

1y ago13:21

13:21

Send us a text The presence of a tremor has, in the past, delayed efforts of pilots to become medically certified. Use of CACI criteria now streamlines the process. In this episode, we review what is required and touch base on the new FAA reauthorization bill that was signed into law last week.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Ouch! The Aches and Pains of Arthritis on the FAA Medical Application 10:46

1y ago10:46

10:46

Send us a text Pilots often forget to report arthritis or musculoskeletal injuries on their FAA medical application. On this episode, we walk.....er, tiptoe....through the process of reporting these common conditions and what is allowed by the FAA to maintain your flight physical.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
The Aerospace Medicine Podcast takes ASMA 2024 6:35

1y ago6:35

6:35

Aerospace Medicine Podcast takes AsMA 2024 This short episode is from the Aerospace Medicine Association’s Annual scientific meeting, taking place in Chicago, Illinois, where our team have been in the last week! Listen for catch-ups with former guests, and an insight into the flagship event of the Aerospace Medicine year. Recommended in this podcas…

1
Whisperings at ASMA and Updates on Weight Loss Drugs 13:04

1y ago13:04

13:04

Send us a text The Aerospace Medical Association (ASMA) is the largest gathering of aviation and aerospace experts in the country with its recent annual meeting concluding in Chicago this week. We discuss some of the highlights and then review recent FAA updates regarding use of certain medications for weight loss.…

1
Wheeze Bad 15:15

1y ago15:15

15:15

Send us a text Asthma is a common condition in the general population and is often worse during allergy seasons in the spring and fall. Is being diagnosed with asthma a significant barrier to obtaining a medical certificate? We discuss stages of asthma severity and how FAA medical certification may be affected.…

1
Got rhythm? Atrial Fibrillation and How To Maintain Your Medical Certificate 31:33

1y ago31:33

31:33

Send us a text Atrial fibrillation is the most prevalent treated heart arrhythmia. We meet with a cardiology expert to discuss assessment, treatment, and new trends in taking care of the condition -- and then review your pathway to aeromedical certification.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
Thyroid Disease: Does this "Black Box" Gland "Box" Your Medical? 18:47

1y ago18:47

18:47

Send us a text The thyroid is often considered the "black box" gland -- not only to patients and pilots, but also to their providers. In this episode, an expert in thyroid disease helps navigate common thyroid conditions, and we discuss the resulting aeromedical implications. Can a pilot still get a medical with thyroid problems, and, if so, what l…

1
The ARC Sails Into New Waters of Mental Health Awareness 12:27

1y ago12:27

12:27

Send us a text On this episode we review current events -- from three new antidepressant medications announced by the FAA as allowable for aeromedical certification to a recent report released by the Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) regarding advances in mental health disclosure and certification.…

1
Pour Some Sugar on Me 20:11

1y ago20:11

20:11

Send us a text Diabetes is a condition that not only can affect your health, but also your FAA aeromedical certification. On this episode we interview an expert in diabetes who is also a pilot to learn more about detection, treatment, and ultimately, how to preserve your medical certificate.By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
What's That Sound? Drone on........... 8:45

1y ago8:45

8:45

Send us a text Operation of remote unmanned aircraft, otherwise known as drone operation, has become the fastest growing segment of aviation in the country. What does it take to become a drone pilot and do you have to have a medical certificate to fly one?By Mayo Clinic Aerospace Medicine

1
The Eyes Have It 26:40

1y ago26:40

26:40

Send us a text One of the most common issues affecting pilots is that of visual acuity. On this episode, a Mayo Clinic optometrist covers the most common eye issues facing pilots. Are those aviator shades worth it? Should pilots be worried about cataracts or glaucoma, and what about monovision correction or LASIK? Listen to find out....…

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