TSH level

[Unregistered]

Dr Bruce,

I have hypothyroidism that is well controlled by Synthroid. My TSH level at my annual checkup last July was 1.11. I won't be going back to the Endocrinologist until July of this year, but I'll be going for my FAA medical within a month. Are TSH levels from 9 months ago considered current, or should I get new bloodwork done prior to going to the AME?

 

[bbchien]

Dr Bruce,

I have hypothyroidism that is well controlled by Synthroid. My TSH level at my annual checkup last July was 1.11. I won't be going back to the Endocrinologist until July of this year, but I'll be going for my FAA medical within a month. Are TSH levels from 9 months ago considered current, or should I get new bloodwork done prior to going to the AME?

Well, from nine months ago you could get a three month issuance. Hardly seems worth it. Get 'em synchronized and go early for the TSH. The Endocrinologists' staff ought to be able to issue the order w/o your even having to appear. You will also, though, need a current status statement from the Endocrine- so you might as well just get the test, show up, and get synchronized.

It's an eternal problem.

 

[Unregistered]

Well, from nine months ago you could get a three month issuance. Hardly seems worth it. Get 'em synchronized and go early for the TSH. The Endocrinologists' staff ought to be able to issue the order w/o your even having to appear. You will also, though, need a current status statement from the Endocrine- so you might as well just get the test, show up, and get synchronized.

It's an eternal problem.

Thanks for the reply. Yeah I guess it makes sence to get synchronized. I didn't realize they issuance would only be for a year from the date of the last TSH.

 

[bbchien]

It's from 90 days or less, plus one year, from the last Endocrine assessment, which of course has to include the TSH.

 

[Unregistered]

Is this likely to get defered, or can the AME issue at the time of the exam?

 

[bbchien]

Is this likely to get defered, or can the AME issue at the time of the exam?

It depends on the content of the reauthorization letter. I hope you have it already- it states the terms and what the AME can do, what testing and what needs to be in the letter from the Endocrinologist.

FAA is getting very slow with there- I have some airmen who barely get them 90 days before the annual issue expires. If you don't have yours yet, get on the phone to FAA 405-954-4821 and bug them to get the letter out!