Catheterization
#1
On Reserve
Thread Starter
Joined APC: Feb 2018
Posts: 13
Catheterization
I have a stent and the FAA requires a post event catheterization in order to get a first class medical. My cardiologist won't order one because it is not "medically necessary". At least two others I have seen have seen said the same thing. One was a supposedly "pilot friendly" cardiologist. From what I can gather I need to keep doctor shopping until I can find one that will order one for me. Before I do that I thought I would see if there was anyone here who has had this done and who you saw to get it ordered. I'm in San Diego but am willing to travel to get it done.
#2
Gets Weekends Off
Joined APC: Mar 2015
Posts: 328
I have a stent and the FAA requires a post event catheterization in order to get a first class medical. My cardiologist won't order one because it is not "medically necessary". At least two others I have seen have seen said the same thing. One was a supposedly "pilot friendly" cardiologist. From what I can gather I need to keep doctor shopping until I can find one that will order one for me. Before I do that I thought I would see if there was anyone here who has had this done and who you saw to get it ordered. I'm in San Diego but am willing to travel to get it done.
Cleveland Clinic is the gold standard when it comes to cardiac procedures. Also, Washington Hospital Center in DC is excellent as well. They have top Electrophysiologists there.
#3
Gets Weekends Off
Joined APC: Sep 2013
Posts: 840
Unfortunately it’s an FAA requirement and most cardiologists will question the need for such an invasive procedure after surgery.
But it’s the only way to go with the FAA if you want your medical.
It’s very likely your insurance will not pay for it as it is not medically required. In fact you will find this to be true for many of the FAA tests. I did mine overseas since I was flying there when it happened so it was relatively cheap. It can cost $$$$ in the US.
But it’s the only way to go with the FAA if you want your medical.
It’s very likely your insurance will not pay for it as it is not medically required. In fact you will find this to be true for many of the FAA tests. I did mine overseas since I was flying there when it happened so it was relatively cheap. It can cost $$$$ in the US.
#4
Gets Weekends Off
Joined APC: Mar 2015
Posts: 328
Unfortunately it’s an FAA requirement and most cardiologists will question the need for such an invasive procedure after surgery.
But it’s the only way to go with the FAA if you want your medical.
It’s very likely your insurance will not pay for it as it is not medically required. In fact you will find this to be true for many of the FAA tests. I did mine overseas since I was flying there when it happened so it was relatively cheap. It can cost $$$$ in the US.
But it’s the only way to go with the FAA if you want your medical.
It’s very likely your insurance will not pay for it as it is not medically required. In fact you will find this to be true for many of the FAA tests. I did mine overseas since I was flying there when it happened so it was relatively cheap. It can cost $$$$ in the US.
If you can find a cardiologist who is familiar with FAA requirements, they could "recommend" you get one and then insurance would likely cover it.
#5
Gets Weekends Off
Joined APC: Sep 2013
Posts: 840
True statement and worth a try. It didn’t work for me. My cardiologist said the only way insurance would cover a certain test was if I were to be symtomatic. And that obviously would defeat the purpose of obtaining a medical.
#6
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Joined APC: Oct 2010
Posts: 27
I guess it depends on your healthcare plan.
#7
Gets Weekends Off
Joined APC: Aug 2014
Position: 121
Posts: 161
Might try giving Dr Raniolo a call, he’s in Phoenix.
FAA Flight Physical | Arizona AME | Special Issuance | FAA Cardiologist | FAA Medical | FAA Medical Exam | FAA Special Issuance | Aerospace Cardiology
FAA Flight Physical | Arizona AME | Special Issuance | FAA Cardiologist | FAA Medical | FAA Medical Exam | FAA Special Issuance | Aerospace Cardiology
#8
On Reserve
Thread Starter
Joined APC: Feb 2018
Posts: 13
Might try giving Dr Raniolo a call, he’s in Phoenix.
FAA Flight Physical | Arizona AME | Special Issuance | FAA Cardiologist | FAA Medical | FAA Medical Exam | FAA Special Issuance | Aerospace Cardiology
FAA Flight Physical | Arizona AME | Special Issuance | FAA Cardiologist | FAA Medical | FAA Medical Exam | FAA Special Issuance | Aerospace Cardiology