Zenith Psychiatryand Aeromedical ConsultingReturn to the main siteFAA aeromedical support
A HIMS psychiatric evaluation is a focused aeromedical assessment designed to answer questions relevant to FAA medical certification. Knowing what to expect—and arriving with the right records—can make a complicated process feel more manageable.
HIMS pathways are individualized. Some evaluations concern psychiatric symptoms or medications; others concern alcohol or substance history. Not every applicant needs the same records, testing, monitoring, or specialists. Your FAA letter and HIMS AME are important guides to the requirements in your particular case.
Begin with your FAA correspondence and, when applicable, your HIMS Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). The request may differ according to your history and certification pathway, so the exact requirements should be identified before the evaluation is scheduled.
You may be asked for FAA records, prior evaluations, treatment notes, medication history, hospital records, legal or employment records, and other supporting documents. Receiving complete records in advance helps make the evaluation more efficient and accurate.
The appointment generally includes a detailed interview covering medical and psychiatric history, treatment, medications, substance use when relevant, personal and occupational history, aviation experience, and current functioning. A mental status examination is also included.
A report is prepared in the format appropriate to the FAA request and includes relevant findings, diagnostic impressions, and recommendations. Depending on the case, the FAA or HIMS AME may request additional records, testing, treatment, or monitoring before making a certification decision.
Preparation Before scheduling
Important first step FAA medical records
The FAA medical file is often needed before an aeromedical evaluation can be completed. Please begin this request as soon as possible, since obtaining the file may take time.
Download FAA Form 8065-2 ↗This form contains personal identifying and medical information. Send it only through an email method you are comfortable using, and verify the recipient address before sending.
FAA pathway Antidepressant protocol
The pathway historically called the “SSRI protocol” is now encompassed by the FAA Antidepressant Protocol, which includes all conditionally approved antidepressant medications. Requirements vary between an initial application and ongoing recertification.
The FAA may require treatment records, a detailed psychiatric report, medication and dose stability, and other evaluations identified by the FAA or HIMS AME. Dr. Hayes can provide the board-certified psychiatrist evaluation and coordinate with the applicant’s HIMS AME.
When clinically appropriate, Dr. Hayes can provide medication management and the psychiatric monitoring reports required by the FAA. Follow-up requirements vary, and a HIMS AME may remain involved when specified by the FAA or the applicant’s authorization letter.
The FAA determines the required pathway, intervals, documentation, and ultimate certification decision. Medication changes should be coordinated with the treating psychiatrist and HIMS AME in accordance with the applicant’s FAA authorization or special-issuance requirements.
Review the current FAA Antidepressant Protocol ↗Dr. Hayes is in network with many UnitedHealthcare and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans. Coverage varies among individual plans and affiliated insurance products, so prospective patients should verify their behavioral-health benefits and Dr. Hayes’s participation directly with their insurer before scheduling.
FAA and HIMS evaluations, record review, collateral communication, report preparation, and related administrative services are self-pay and are not covered by insurance. For pilots receiving ongoing antidepressant treatment, clinically necessary appointments and medication management may be eligible for insurance coverage. FAA-specific monitoring reports, documentation, and associated administrative work are not covered by insurance and are paid by the individual.
Questions about an evaluation?
Contact the practice to discuss the referral and determine what information is needed before scheduling.