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I have a question about my certification. What should I do?
I have a question about my certification. What should I do?
The best first step is to schedule a consultation. This allows Dr. Graff to review the full details of your situation and any relevant documentation so she can provide accurate guidance. General email inquiries usually don’t include enough information to appropriately advise on FAA certification matters.
What services do we provide? How much does it cost?
What services do we provide? How much does it cost?
We offer general AME examinations (1st, 2nd, 3rd class, BasicMed), consultations, HIMS case management, ATC examinations, basic vision and hearing screening, spirometry (pulmonary function tests), and school/occupational physicals. Click here for more details about services and rates.
What is your cancellation policy?
What is your cancellation policy?
We understand plans can change! To cancel or reschedule, just let us know at least 24 hours before your appointment by texting (814) 713-2637 or emailing info@himsamehouston.com. That gives us time to offer the slot to another pilot. Cancellations made after that window may be charged a $100 late-cancellation fee, but we’ll always work with you—especially in emergencies or extenuating circumstances.
How do I change my appointment?
How do I change my appointment?
You can reschedule your appointment anytime by clicking the “Reschedule” link in your confirmation or reminder email from Square. It’s quick and easy! If you run into any issues, feel free to email us at info@himsamehouston.com, and we’ll help you out.
What happens during an FAA physical exam?
What happens during an FAA physical exam?
What to Expect During Your FAA Medical Exam
Your FAA exam is a streamlined process designed to ensure you're medically fit for flight. During the visit, we will review your MedXpress health history form (aka the FAA 8500-8), followed by vision testing, a blood pressure check, and a physical exam tailored to your certification class. Depending on your needs, the visit may also include hearing tests, EKGs (for certain age groups and classes), or additional documentation for special issuances or HIMS evaluations.Our goal is to make the process clear, respectful, and efficient—so you can stay focused on flying.
Your FAA exam is a streamlined process designed to ensure you're medically fit for flight. During the visit, we will review your MedXpress health history form (aka the FAA 8500-8), followed by vision testing, a blood pressure check, and a physical exam tailored to your certification class. Depending on your needs, the visit may also include hearing tests, EKGs (for certain age groups and classes), or additional documentation for special issuances or HIMS evaluations.Our goal is to make the process clear, respectful, and efficient—so you can stay focused on flying.
Do I need a color vision test?
Do I need a color vision test?
If you have ever had an FAA certificate approved in the past, you won't need another color vision test. First time aviators will need a color vision test. If you are unsure or have any trouble editing your appointment online, no worries! We can modify the details on-site if anything further is needed.
What are our hours?
What are our hours?
Currently HAH is open Monday - Wednesday from 1000 - 1530. If there's not a time that works for you, shoot us a message at info@himsamehouston.com and let's figure something out.
Do you have a phone number?
Do you have a phone number?
Our phone number is 814-713-AMES (2637). For the fastest response, we recommend texting or emailing us directly.
Since we are a fully digital practice, we typically do not answer phone calls in real time. If you call, feel free to leave a voicemail—your message will be emailed directly to our team at info@himsamehouston.com.
Where are we?
Where are we?
Find us on the second floor of Atlantic Aviation IAH (Address: 17725 John F Kennedy Blvd, Houston, TX 77032).
HIMS - What is HIMS?
HIMS - What is HIMS?
HIMS (Human Intervention Motivation Study) is a specialized program designed to support pilots and air traffic controllers with a history of mental health diagnoses, substance use history, or certain medical conditions. The goal of the program is to ensure safety of flight and a structured return to duty for existing aviators.
The HIMS process includes collaboration between the airman, a trained HIMS Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), healthcare professionals, and the FAA. It typically involves monitoring, treatment, regular medical evaluations, and documentation that demonstrates ongoing wellness and compliance.
Whether you need HIMS engagement after your exam won't be a secret- the FAA will write you a letter telling you exactly what they want.
At its core, HIMS is not punitive—it’s a safety-focused program that balances medical oversight with the FAA’s commitment to supporting aviation professionals in maintaining both their health and their careers.
HIMS - How do I transfer my HIMS management to the HIMS AME of Houston office?
HIMS - How do I transfer my HIMS management to the HIMS AME of Houston office?
If you are currently working with another HIMS AME and would like to transfer your case to our office, the process is as follows:
Request to have your FAA medical records sent to our office.
Submit a written request to the FAA explaining why there is a requirement for a new AME.
Let your current AME know you wish to transition care. Your current AME will need to write a 'closeout' report, then submit it to the FAA and to our office.
After review of your files from the FAA and AME, we will submit a letter formally accepting your care and coordinate a seamless handoff.
The FAA must approve of the transfer. Once that is done, w will review your history, confirm where you are in the FAA process, and coordinate a seamless handoff so there is no disruption in your monitoring or certification pathway.
To get started, please contact our office so we can provide you with the appropriate release form and help you notify your current AME. Our goal is to make your transfer as smooth and stress-free as possible, while keeping your FAA requirements on track.
HIMS - The FAA says I need a HIMS Psychiatrist, who should I see?
HIMS - The FAA says I need a HIMS Psychiatrist, who should I see?
If You Need Neuropsych or Psychiatric Evaluation:
If You Need Neuropsych or Psychiatric Evaluation:
Review the FAA approved Aviation Psychologist lists. Review the online guide for Psych/Neuropsych assessment. You can choose any psychiatrist, but one familiar with aviation is recommended.
Choose your providers (keep in mind, they do not have to be local to your area, but you should see the same one for all your subsequent evaluations). You may be given the option for a 'board-certified' psychiatrist, as opposed to a HIMS psychiatrist. Generally, it is more cost-effective to see a board-certified psychiatrist, but they may not know exactly what the FAA wants. HIMS psychiatrists are specifically trained for the HIMS program and, though may cost more for an evaluation, are sure to provide all information desired by the FAA.
➡️ Local Options
UnitedAME (Fast, Online Neuropsych Bookings)
Dr. Rose Dunn with Neuropsychology and Behavioral Health Consultants (Austin, TX; Dallas, TX; Houston, TX; Little Rock, AR; Bentonville, AR)
Dr. John Largen with John Largen and Associates (Houston, TX)
Dr. Kate Glywasky or Dr. Jill Koenig with KG Neuropsychology
➡️ Aviation Psychiatrist
Dr. Alan Lagrone (Dallas, TX; Call 469-439-2250 to set up appointment)
Dr. Rocksheng Zhong with UTMB (Houston, TX; Call 800-917-8906 to set up appointment)
Dr. Cole Weatherby with Moontower Wellness (Denver, CO)
Dr. Gregory Kirk with Aviation Psychiatry (Denver, CO; Salt Lake City, UT; Las Vegas, NV)
Dr. Andrea Nelsen with AeroPsychiatry (Services available in AK, Guam, HI, MN, MO, NY, NC, ND, WY)
If you need more help or are having difficulty interpreting your letter, please feel welcome to book an AME consultation for more information.
Ask the Doc - How long have you been an AME?
Ask the Doc - How long have you been an AME?
Dr. Graff has been performing aviation medical exams since 2020. During Dr. Graff's military service, she served as an Air Force Flight Surgeon, prior to FAA designation. Dr. Graff has been a HIMS AME since 2025.
Ask the Doc - Are you practicing other areas of medicine if AME is not full time?
Ask the Doc - Are you practicing other areas of medicine if AME is not full time?
"AME is my only gig!"
Ask the Doc - How do you think your time in the Air Force affects how you handle your AME role?
Ask the Doc - How do you think your time in the Air Force affects how you handle your AME role?
"In the Air Force, there is a lot of emphasis on pilot-AME relationship. Pilots tend not to disclose medical issues unless you are a trusted AME. I strive to maintain that level of relationship so I can facilitate healthy pilots and a safe airspace."
Ask the Doc - What brings you the most satisfaction in your AME role?
Ask the Doc - What brings you the most satisfaction in your AME role?
"Pilots are my type of people (I married one, so I am quite partial). I like helping people get to do what makes them happy. HIMS is extensive, so it’s nice to see people reach the finish line."
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