We have a list of DAMES and DAOs on our website.
Pilots who operate in multiple locations may end up visiting a different DAME for every application. This may lead to a loss of continuity in the medical history and relationship with the DAME but is largely unavoidable.
However, there are some applicants who deliberately visit a different DAME on each occasion. This prevents a DAME from assessing an applicant over time, and of greater concern, it is sometimes used to reduce the chance of an adverse medical history being detected and acted upon.
DAMEs can identify the previous five DAMEs who have handled applications for an individual in the MRS. Where there are multiple DAMEs involved in applications, the reasons for this should be explored, and care taken to ensure the credibility of the information provided.
Similar concerns arise with applicants possessing medical certificates from overseas authorities. DAMEs must always view the previous medical certificate (or licence, if it is not a lifetime licence). Any restrictions or conditions should be noted, and information sought to determine the circumstances leading to the restriction or condition. In particular, the comment on the certificate stating that
'…the applicant does not meet the regulatory standard'
(or words to that effect) should prompt a request for information from the previous medical and details of the reasons for that assessment.
DAMEs should note that the CASA application for a medical certificate includes a consent at the end, which enables the requesting of medical reports from overseas authorities. This documentation should be sought prior to assessment.
For an authority like CASA, with an extensive number of overseas DAMEs, such travelling between them (or 'DAME shopping') presents a real safety risk. DAMEs with concerns must contact CASA for advice and assistance in resolving them.