FAA Policy Change on Insulin-Dependent Diabetics

FAA Policy Change On Medical Certification Of Insulin-Dependent Diabetics

Nov. 20 -- The FAA published in the Federal Register on November 20 a policy change involving consideration of special issuance medical certification for persons who have insulin treated diabetes mellitus (ITDM). This policy would allow consideration for special issuance authorization for third class medical certification for pilots exercising student, recreational, and private pilot privileges. The effective date is December 23, 1996.

Briefly, applicants for special issuance will be required to undergo an extensive initial evaluation addressing significant diabetes-related complications such as arteriosclerotic coronary or cerebral disease, retinal disease, or chronic renal failure, and must:

a.) have had no recurrent (two or more) hypoglycemic reactions resulting in loss of consciousness or seizure within the past five years. One year of stabilization is required following the first episode of hypoglycemia, and;

b.) have had no recurrent hypoglycemic reactions requiring intervention by another party within the past 5 years. A period of one year of demonstrated stability is required following the first episode of hypoglycemia; and

c.) have had no recurrent hypoglycemia reactions resulting in impaired cognitive function which occurred without warning symptoms within the past 5 years. A period of 1 year of demonstrated stability is required following the first episode of hypoglycemia.

Copies of all medical records concerning the diabetes diagnosis and disease history. including current glycated hemoglobin readings, will also be required for review, as well as any records associated with accidents or incidents if due in part or totally to diabetes.

Individuals who are special issued medical certificates will be required to submit to a medical examination by a specialist every 3 months.

Specific requirements for pre-flight, in-flight, and pre-landing blood glucose monitoring are detailed in the policy change. These guidelines are generally consistent with the protocol presented by the Federal Air Surgeon's Endocrinology Panel in the Request for Comments published on December 29, 1994. Pilots will be required to carry with them while flying an acceptable glucose measuring device, and appropriate glucose snacks to maintain blood glucose levels. Blood glucose levels will be required to be maintained in the 100 mg./dl. - 300 mg./dl. range from 1/2 hour before takeoff to 1/2 hour before landing.

Full details of the policy change are available to AOPA members from AOPA's Medical Certification Department, 800-USA-AOPA (800-872-2672).