AME HIMS AME & Special Issuance Processes

Question 1

What does 'HIMS' stand for in the context of FAA Aviation Medical Certification, and what is the primary function of a HIMS AME?

Accepted Answer

Human Intervention Motivation Study; HIMS AMEs are specially trained to evaluate airmen with substance use disorders and manage their return to flight

Answer

HIMS (Human Intervention Motivation Study) AMEs are specially certified to evaluate airmen recovering from substance use disorders, coordinate with treatment providers, and manage the complex FAA authorization process for return to flight.

Question 2

What is the minimum sobriety period typically required before the FAA will consider an initial Special Issuance Authorization for an airman with alcohol use disorder?

Accepted Answer

1 year of documented sobriety and AA or treatment participation

Answer

The FAA generally requires a minimum of 1 year of documented sobriety, active participation in a recovery program, and a complete HIMS evaluation package for initial Special Issuance Authorization consideration.

Question 3

Under the AASI (AME-Assisted Special Issuance) program, what is the primary difference between an AASI re-issuance and a standard certificate issuance?

Accepted Answer

AASI allows an AME to re-issue a certificate to an applicant with an established FAA Authorization without sending the case to AMCD each renewal, provided the applicant continues to meet specified criteria

Answer

AASI streamlines recertification for applicants with established Authorizations by allowing qualified AMEs to re-issue certificates without AMCD review at each renewal, reducing administrative burden while maintaining specified monitoring criteria.

Question 4

What documents must the AME review before proceeding with AASI re-issuance for an airman with a history of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery?

Accepted Answer

The Authorization letter specifying required documents, which typically include: current stress test results, echocardiogram, cardiology status report, and medication list

Answer

AASI re-issuance requires the AME to review the specific documents outlined in the airman's Authorization letter - typically including current cardiac testing results, specialist reports, and medication documentation - before issuing.

Question 5

Under the SSRI Authorization pathway, which of the following SSRIs is NOT on the FAA's approved list for aeromedical certification?

Accepted Answer

Paroxetine (Paxil)

Answer

Paroxetine (Paxil) is not on the FAA's approved SSRI list for aeromedical certification, primarily due to its greater anticholinergic effects, discontinuation syndrome, and CNS side effect profile compared to the four approved SSRIs.

(AME) Aviation Medical Examiner Certification Practice Test

(AME) Aviation Medical Examiner Certification Practice Test

AME HIMS AME & Special Issuance Processes