Special Issuance Renewal Process

[Jon Wilder]

So I did my last MedXpress application + physical in August 2022. The FAA requested reports from my counselor and my peer support group sponsor, which I plan to submit in a couple of weeks.

I'm over 40, and this is a first/initial application for HIMS 3rd Class SI (2 DUI's greater than 15 years old). No SI has been issued previously.

Just trying to get an idea for what to prepare for. I'm assuming that by the time they review the requested information, if said information leads to an issuance of a SI, will the medical certificate more than likely be expired already? If so, will I have to start a new MedXpress, or will my previous one still have standing? Will we have to repeat the physical/eye/ear exam?

I keep hearing that SI's are time limited, maximum 1 year, but the MedXpress application for those over 40 is good for two years.

Again, I'm just trying to get an idea for what to prepare for...what the next steps will be.

 

[ahmad]

So you are in the process of applying and hoping to get a SI but you want to know how long it will be valid for?

I think you will have many many other steps to worry about before "how long will it be valid for". This is going to be a long process before you have to think about what you are thinking about.

 

[FatherPilot]

If you do eventually receive a SI, by that time you will be quite a changed person and very thankful to have that letter in your hand giving you a chance to fly. Gird yourself for a mental battle.

 

[midlifeflyer]

Often the SI itself will tell you what you need to do at renewal time.

 

[bbchien]

This entirely depends on what your HIMS psychiatrist (or psychiatrist) evaluation sez.
...on whehter you were able to substantiate sobirety (Any use of alochol after two offences is 'dependnecy" per "FAA definition" and require rehab.

Not enough information!

 

[Jon Wilder]

This entirely depends on what your HIMS psychiatrist (or psychiatrist) evaluation sez.
...on whehter you were able to substantiate sobirety (Any use of alochol after two offences is 'dependnecy" per "FAA definition" and require rehab.

Not enough information!

In his Opinion Summary for Alcohol Dependence -

"It is my opinion that the Airman is in good recovery.

I see no significant aeromedical matters of a psychiatric nature. However, it is my opinion that ongoing alcohol monitoring should be continued."

At the time of the HIMS psychiatrist evaluation, I had only been on the "14 in 12" tests with him for 5 months (I did not have a HIMS AME prior to the psych evaluation, thus the HIMS psych placed me on the 14 in 12 testing under him until I engaged with a HIMS AME). It has been 28 months since the start of my "14 in 12" tests with no positive tests.

 

[bbchien]

Jon:

They will likely require:
Continued AA logged attendance 2x/week
Continued testing at 14 in 12.
Six month inssuance by the HIMS AME, and aggregated 3 monthly reports from him (Zoom on the off quarater).

Were I your HIMS AME I would be sending the updated testing so that they could see that an issuance would NOT be in contravention to 67.301.

 

[Jon Wilder]

Jon:

They will likely require:
Continued AA logged attendance 2x/week
Continued testing at 14 in 12.
Six month inssuance by the HIMS AME, and aggregated 3 monthly reports from him (Zoom on the off quarater).

Were I your HIMS AME I would be sending the updated testing so that they could see that an issuance would NOT be in contravention to 67.301.

Hi Dr Bruce.

Currently, I report to my AME every 3 months, and he reports to the FAA every 6 months. Updated testing results are typically sent in with his 6 month reports I do believe.

As for the AA involvement, my fellowship just re-elected their meeting secretaries last week. I was nominated and elected to be the secretary of our Monday night meetings.

Thank you so much for your input, as I am beyond grateful to have this second chance. I know you're one of the experts so your opinion is always highly valued and respected.