Application Process for Medical Certification - Exam Techniques and Criteria for Qualification
Item 36. Heart

When General Examinations Reveal Heart Problems:
These specifications have been developed by the FAA to determine an applicant's eligibility for airman medical certification. Standardization of examination methods and reporting is essential to provide sufficient basis for making determinations and the prompt processing of applications.

1. This cardiovascular evaluation, therefore, must be reported in sufficient detail to permit a clear and objective evaluation of the cardiovascular disorder(s) with emphasis on the degree of functional recovery and prognosis. It should be forwarded to the FAA immediately upon completion. Inadequate evaluation, reporting, or failure to promptly submit the report to the FAA may delay the certification decision.
   1. Medical History. Particular reference should be given to cardiovascular abnormalities cerebral, visceral, and/or peripheral. A statement must be included as to whether medications are currently or have been recently used, and if so, the type, purpose, dosage, duration of use, and other pertinent details must be provided. A specific history of any anticoagulant drug therapy is required. In addition, any history of hypertension must be fully developed, to include all medications used, dosages, and documentation of side-effects.
   
   
   2. Family, Personal, and Social History. A statement of the ages and health status of parents and siblings is required; if deceased, cause and age at death should be included. Also, any indication of whether any near blood relative has had a "heart attack," hypertension, diabetes, or known disorder of lipid metabolism must be provided. Smoking, drinking, and recreational habits of the applicant are pertinent as well as whether a program of physical fitness is being maintained. Comments on the level of physical activities, functional limitations, occupational, and avocational pursuits are essential.
   
   
   3. Records of Previous Medical Care. If not previously furnished to the FAA, a copy of pertinent hospital records as well as out patient treatment records with clinical data, X-ray, laboratory observations, and originals or copies of all electrocardiographic (ECG) tracings should be provided. Detailed reports of surgical procedures as well as cerebral and coronary arteriography and other major diagnostic studies are of prime importance.
   
   
   4. Surgery. The presence of an aneurysm or obstruction of a major vessel of the body is disqualifying for medical certification of any class. Following successful surgical intervention and correction, the applicant may ask for FAA consideration. The FAA recommends that the applicant recover for at least 3 months for ATCS's and 6 months for airmen.
   
   
    

A history of coronary artery bypass surgery is disqualifying for certification. Such surgery does not negate a past history of coronary heart disease. The presence of permanent cardiac pacemakers and artificial heart valves is also disqualifying for certification.

The FAA will consider an Authorization for a Special Issuance of a Medical Certificate (Authorization) for most cardiac conditions. Applicants seeking further FAA consideration should be prepared to submit all past records and a report of a complete current cardiovascular evaluation in accordance with FAA specifications.