FAA Neuropsychological Assessment
Pilots, pilot candidates, and air traffic controllers may be referred for an FAA Neuropsychological Assessment and/or mental health assessment for a variety of reasons. However, the general purpose of testing is usually to evaluate for potential neurocognitive and/or psychological deficits that may interfere with flight performance and flight safety.
The referral for an FAA Neuropsychological Assessment or neuropsychological testing may be initiated by an AME, airline, pilot’s union, flight-related service, EAP, HR, flight training department, disability insurance provider, or the pilot. Common referrals for FAA Neuropsychological Assessment include pilots who have been prescribed one of several SSRI antidepressant medications, HIV-seropositive pilots, pilots recovering from alcohol/substance abuse or dependence, pilots recovering from a neurological condition such as a mild head injury or cerebrovascular condition, and applicants with a history of ADHD or who have been prescribed medications used to treat ADHD. In other instances, FAA Neuropsychological Assessment may be required due to problems that became apparent during pilot training, upgrading, transitioning between aircraft, or during proficiency training.
The testing often includes a combination of FAA Neuropsychological Assessment, CogScreen Aeromedical Edition (AE) assessment, and/or psychological assessment. The FAA has developed several testing protocols specifying what tests are required at a minimum.
The FAA Neuropsychological Assessment involves one-on-one assessment of skills that are considered important for the cognitive demands of flight including attention, focus, sustained attention, distractibility, memory, visual-spatial skills, auditory perception, perceptual speed, rapid motor responses, decision-making, and the ability to rapidly process information. A neuropsychological assessment usually requires at least one full day.
The CogScreen AE is a computer-administered screening instrument developed for the FAA as a measure of cognitive functioning that can impact operational performance during flight. The test consists of 13 subtests including measures of visual scanning and tracking, attention, reaction time, short and long-term memory, visual-perceptual speed, divided attention, psychomotor tracking, math reasoning, novel problem solving, and multitasking ability. A series of studies have shown that CogScreen AE variables are predictors of actual and simulated flight performance in commercial and general aviation. The CogScreen AE can be completed in 45-60 minutes, but the overall process usually requires a half-day including the clinical interview.
Mental health/psychological assessment is often a required as part of the FAA Neuropsychological Assessment. Working as a pilot can be a significantly stressful job. Problems with psychological functioning such as depression, suicidality, anxiety, panic attacks, and alcoholism are risk factors for accidents during flight.
Pilot candidates who have been prescribed medication for ADHD should be off medication for a minimum of 90 days before testing. They will also be required to have a urinalysis within 24 hours after the neuropsychological testing to rule-out the presence of ADHD medication. Our office can assist the candidate in finding a medical lab that is conveniently located.
Following the FAA Neuropsychological Assessment, the neuropsychologist will summarize the data, draw conclusions, and make recommendations in a report to the FAA. However, the FAA is the final authority regarding the granting or denial of medical certification.
Additional Information About FAA Neuropsychological Assessment
Dr. Largen can tell you more about FAA Neuropsychological Assessment and his services. Contact us to make an appointment to meet with Dr. Largen today.
Houston Neuropsychologist Specialist
Contact John Largen and Associates to make an appointment or to discuss your case. We can answer any questions you may have.
John Largen & Associates, Inc.
1100 Nasa Parkway, Suite 403
Houston, Texas 77058
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- Please call us at: (281) 957-9863
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