AEROSPACE MEDICINE SPECIALIST/FLIGHT SURGEON
CARING FOR THOSE WHO FLY
The stresses and conditions that result from working in extreme conditions require unique, specialized care. Aerospace Medicine Specialists/Flight Surgeons are primary care physicians for pilots and crew members traveling in air or space. These physicians discover, prevent, and manage the various physiological responses that result from encountering exceptional environments, enabling our Airmen to stay in peak condition and continue their jobs in the air.
Responsibilities
- Conduct medical examinations and provide care for air and missile crews.
- Determine fitness for flying and special duties as well as evaluating living and working environments to detect and control health hazards.
- Regularly participate in flying missions to observe and advise on aeromedical issues.
- Develop and manage preventive medicine programs, including the education of flight personnel in healthy lifestyles.
- Establish procedures for managing casualties in aviation accidents and other disasters.
- Provide advice on aeromedical evacuation and serve on aviation mishap investigation boards.
- Serve as the liaison between flying squadrons and medical services.
Training & Education
How do we transform you from the civilian sector to a leader and an Officer in the Air Force? From education to continued training, your Air Force path is here.
Officer Training School
5.5 weeks
Military Training Location
Maxwell AFB, AL
Requirements
You must meet several requirements before joining the Air Force. These concern your background, overall health, and other standards set by the Air Force, Department of Defense, and federal law.
- M.D. or D.O. degree and completed an ACGME- or AOA-accredited program of postgraduate specialty training.
- Completion of a primary course in aerospace medicine.
- Must possess an aeronautical rating of Flight Surgeon, Senior Flight Surgeon, or Chief Flight Surgeon.
- Completion of a residency at a fully accredited residency program.
- Minimum 12 months of experience as a flight surgeon (Aerospace Medicine Specialist only).
- Board eligible in Aerospace Medicine (Aerospace Medicine Specialist only).
- Completion of Officer Training School course.
- Must be between the ages of 18 and have not reached your 48th birthday.