My experience as an insulin dependant diabetic was around 5-6 months for the first one.
I started the process in March, knowing full well that they would request more info from me. I got the letter requesting more info/tests about 5 weeks later. They gave me 30 days to respond, but I couldn't get everything scheduled and returned that quickly. I asked for an extension and they gave me an additional thirty days. Finally, I got everything submitted. I received my SI the first week of September.
Since then, I have a nice system set up. I get all the required doctor's appts scheduled a year out and about 5 weeks before my medical runs out, I submit all the paperwork they ask for in my SI letter. I got my latest one back in around 3 weeks which was the fastest turn around to date for me.
One tip for you if I may...get a list of everything you need from whatever doctor ahead of time and give it to them to help them out. My endocrinologist and eye doctor have been fabulous about getting everything put together for me. I give them a copy of the letter with stuff highlighted for easy reference. They are busy people and I like to help them out since they are helping me out.
Good luck with everything! Hope to see you in air soon!!
