Physician's Statement For Air Travel Portable Oxygen Concentrator
For individuals with respiratory issues, travelling by air can be a daunting experience. The lack of oxygen at high altitudes can make it difficult for them to breathe, and this can lead to serious health complications. However, travelling with a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) could make things easier for these individuals. In this article, we will discuss what a Physician's Statement for Air Travel Portable Oxygen Concentrator is and its importance.
What is a Physician's Statement?
A Physician's Statement is a document that provides information about a medical condition, the patient's need for a portable oxygen concentrator (POC), and the type of device that will be used. It is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for individuals who need medical oxygen during air travel. The Physician's Statement must be completed and signed by a licensed physician, and it should contain specific information that meets the FAA's requirements.
The FAA requires that the Physician's Statement must include the following details:
- The patient's name and date of birth
- The physician's name, address, and phone number
- The patient's medical condition that requires oxygen therapy
- The oxygen delivery system and flow rate required by the patient during the flight
- The duration of the patient's need for oxygen therapy
- The expected duration of the flight
- Any restrictions or specific requirements for the use of the oxygen concentrator during the flight
The Physician's Statement must be completed within 10 days of the scheduled flight, and it must be presented to the airline at least 48 hours before the flight.
Importance of the Physician's Statement
The FAA requires a Physician's Statement to ensure the safety of the passenger and other passengers on the plane. The statement provides critical information to the airline about the patient's medical condition, oxygen requirements, and the type of equipment that will be used during the flight.
Without the Physician's Statement, the airline may not allow the passenger to bring a POC onboard, or the device may be confiscated at the security checkpoint. In some cases, an airline may provide its own POC, but this is not a guarantee. It is, therefore, important for individuals who require oxygen therapy during a flight to obtain a Physician's Statement before travelling.
How to Obtain a Physician's Statement
Individuals who require oxygen therapy during a flight should consult their physician for a written statement. The physician must be licensed in the United States and should be aware of the FAA's requirements for the Physician's Statement.
The Physician's Statement should be completed and signed by the physician at least 10 days before the scheduled flight. The individual should then provide a copy to the airline at least 48 hours before the flight. It is also advisable to carry a copy of the statement during the flight, in case there are any issues with the POC.
Conclusion
Travelling with a portable oxygen concentrator can make air travel easier for individuals with respiratory issues. However, it is important to obtain a Physician's Statement before travelling. The statement provides critical information to the airline about the patient's medical condition and oxygen requirements and ensures the safety of the passenger and other passengers on the plane.
If you need a Physician's Statement for Air Travel Portable Oxygen Concentrator, consult your physician and obtain one at least 10 days before your scheduled flight.