USAF Pilot/Physician Program: History, Current Program, and Proposals for the Future

Abstract

Pilot-physicians have existed since the very beginnings of aviation. Even though they were not a recognized for formal group of individuals until after World War I, they have made great contributions to the general knowledge of aviation physiology and human factors. They have been able to communicate with both the line and the medical corps through-their knowledge of both languages. This paper presents the history of pilot-physicians from their beginning through to the present. It outlines for the pilot-physician program the goals and objectives, selection process, and program outline. It documents accomplishments and outlines career progression of pilot-physicians who were located and sent questionnaires. And finally, it summarizes the possible future direction of the program through the eyes of its participants. Keywords: Aviation medicine; Physicians; Pilot-physician; Flight surgeons.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 01, 1989
Accession Number
ADA212671

Entities

People

  • Thomas Koritz

Organizations

  • United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Human Systems
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accident Investigations
  • Acquisition
  • Air Force
  • Employment
  • Fighter Aircraft
  • Flight Training
  • Health Services
  • Hospitals
  • Instructors
  • Medical Personnel
  • Military Pilots
  • Occupational Medicine
  • Personnel Management
  • Poisoning
  • Students
  • Training
  • Warfare

Fields of Study

  • Medicine

Readers

  • Aviation Science / Aeronautics.
  • Military Leadership and Professional Education.
  • Technical Research and Report Writing.