ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the role of the doctor in aviation, and the relevance of aviation medicine to flight training. Aviation medicine had its beginnings with the early balloonists, many of whom were medical practitioners. The doctor may be a full-time specialist in aviation medicine, or may combine aviation medicine with normal clinical practice. The majority of doctors involved in aviation medicine will have a part time commitment. In the military, the flight surgeon is a doctor who has completed a formal course of instruction in aviation medicine. The country doctor will need to conduct initial and routine medicals, but may require an extensive knowledge of toxicology if aerial spraying is conducted in the area. The doctor may be more involved in recreational flying, as an aero club member, or as the local Designated Medical Examiner. The doctor may simply carry out the statutory medical examinations and reviews, make the appropriate recommendations, and issue medical certificates.
