Designated Aviation Medical Examiners need available basic information concerning the FAA medical certification system, the philosophy which underlies standards, policy and procedures, and certain limitations of the system. It is through such information that errors adverse to safety can be forestalled and differences in opinions between equally dedicated and knowledgeable physicians can be best averted.
Regulatory medicine must have orientation different from that in the private practice of medicine. Insofar as these necessary differences and limitations are recognized, the FAA mission of safety and promotion of aviation should be enhanced by a more effective and equitable system of medical certification.