from human error. This program is also designed to minimize injury and
illness due to an aviation environment.
b. Aviation Medicine Program Aim. The specific aim of the program is
to promote health and safety through preventive practices. These practices
include physical examinations; clinical care; hygiene and physical fitness;
education and training of aircrew members; and inspection of the living and
working environment of aviation personnel.
2.
FLIGHT SURGEON ROLES
Most aircrew members view the flight surgeon only as the person to whom
they go when they are sick or need a flight physical. However, the duties
of the flight surgeon are more complex and demanding. In any week a flight
surgeon may be required to perform in one or all of the following
capacities.
a. Perform Physical Examinations. All soldiers receiving proficiency
pay for flight must be given physical examinations.
(1) Initial flying physicals: Before a soldier can be trained as an
Army aviator or perform duties as crew member on an Army aircraft he must be
given an initial physical. During this physical the flight surgeon must
determine if the soldier meets the physical requirements for flying duty and
if he is able to cope with the psychological stress of flight.
(2) Annual flying physicals: All Army aviators and flight crew
members must be given annual physicals. During this physical the flight
surgeon must ensure the crew member is physically and emotionally able to
continue his duties.
(3) Post-mishap physicals: All crew members aboard an aircraft at
the time of an accident mishap must be given a physical before being allowed
to continue flying duties.
b. Provide Medical Care to Include Prevention and Treatment of Illness.
(1) Crew member sick call: The flight surgeon will be available to
diagnose and treat all crew members suffering from illness or injury.
(2) Family practice: The flight surgeon may, as part of a hospital
staff, be required to perform services in family practice or other hospital
clinics.
c. Act as an Advisor to the Commander. The flight surgeon will act as
a consultant to aviation unit commanders on individual and unit health
problems that could compromise flying safety. He will also maintain liaison
with the command to implement the aviation medicine program.
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