Alan Olson, MD

What I Do

As a Senior Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), I am authorized to conduct airman physical examinations for First, Second and Third Class Medical Certificates. I am also authorized to issue the combined Medical-Student Pilot Certificate. Professional pilots need a valid medical certificate to fly, much like professional truck drivers need a current DOT certificate. Certification exams are required every 6 or 12 months, depending on the type of flying the pilot is doing. Private pilots are seen every 2 or 5 years, depending on their age. There is a second option for medical assessment available to private pilots where they can see their primary care doctor instead of an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), but you must have been seen by an AME at least once for initial certification.

As a HIMS AME, I have specialty training in the HIMS program for pilots who require an FAA-monitored alcohol or drug Special Issuance Authorization. I also have enhanced training in mental health issues common to pilots, such as SSRI treatment of depression or anxiety disorders using FAA-pathway SSRIs therapies.

I am happy to serve as a resource if there are any questions regarding flying or aviation medicine related questions.

Getting to Know Me

I started at CentraCare - Redwood (formerly ACMC - Redwood Falls) in October 1992 and practiced in family medicine for over 28 years. I believe strongly in the importance of rural health care and appreciate the role each person plays in the health of individuals - especially employers. After retirement from family medicine in early 2021, I have been providing DOT and FAA exams as part of the Occupational Medicine team.