John Walters M.D.

John F Walters, M.D., A.M.E. is an avid aviator, and knows first-hand the apprehension that comes with the flight physical. That's why his approach is to work with pilots to keep them in the cockpit, and work just as hard to get them back in the cockpit, if necessary.
In addition to being a pilot, John is board certified in Emergency Medicine and newly active Airman Medical Examiner. He is a graduate of The Citadel and the Medical University of South Carolina, and is the current director of the Roper Hospital Emergency Department--a position he has held for 25 years of his 30 year ER career.
Flying is in John's blood. He developed his passion for flight as a 15-year old when he and his brothers started flying a J3 Cub off a grass strip on Isle of Palms, SC. His father was an Air Force fighter pilot and a Captain for Eastern Airlines, and his brother served for 24 years flying F-16s and is currently a UPS Captain.

FAQ

What do I need to prepare for the exam?

Make sure to bring all prescription medications you are currently taking, any correspondance with the FAA and any pertinent medical forms. For quicker service, please print your MedXPress form and bring it with you.

How much does the exam cost?

3rd- $150

2nd- $180

1st- $225 *$250 with EKG

What methods of payment are accepted?

Cash, Check, Venmo, PayPal or Zelle

About the Exam:

Remember that you the pilot, need a checkup just like the airplane before each flight. Dr. Walters works hard to keep pilots in the cockpit, enjoying their time in the air.

There are four areas that receive special scrutiny, to better prepare and avoid delays read below":

Vision -Expect a standard vision test. If you have a waiver, “soda” or a letter of demonstrated ability, you must bring it with you. Bring along any glasses you wear, even readers. There is no penalty for taking the eye exam with glasses or contacts.

Blood Pressure. The FAA requires your blood pressure less than 155/95 without requiring an evaluation. If your BP is high, we will give you time to settle and reevaluate. Avoid caffeine before coming in for your flight physical.

Check your medical records. If you have seen a doctor in the last two or three years, note the exact date, the doctor’s full name and address and the reason for the examination. Please bring any prescription medication you are on. While many physician visits are completely irrelevant to flying skills, they still need to be reported .

Be sure to read the Medexpress form carefully. Issues pertaining to your flying experience, medication usage, and particularly any legal issues that have arisen, such as traffic tickets, alcohol or drug-related issues. The FAA reserves the right to scrutinize those legal records. While the AME may not know about those events, such issues will eventually catch up with you. So be transparent and honest, and things will go better.

If you have any questions, or need to schedule an emergency physical do not hesitate to contact us!

Thanks,

John F Walters, MD, AME 843.224.0349