Beware of AOPA Partnership with Life Line Screening!

I have become aware of a program that is described in a mailer sent out by AOPA to all members, in which AOPA is a supporting sponsor for Life Line Screening. Simply put, Life Line Screenings will provide:

Stroke/Carotid Artery Screening
Heart Rhythm Screening
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening
Osteoporosis Risk Assessment

for $135.

Here is the problem. This random screening, while potentially turning up life threatening diseases, may also provide findings which will result in loss of your medical certificate. The problem with this program is that false positives (finding of an abnormality which later turns out to be a non-issue) may require significant workup and evaluation. Further, if certain abnormalities are found you must report them to the FAA, putting your medical certificate in jeopardy.

As an aviation medical examiner, I am concerned that AOPA would partner with such a company, particularly when it puts it’s members at significant risk for losing their medical certification.

I would encourage you to write or call to AOPA and ask that they reconsider their promotion of this program. I would further discourage any from participating in this program.

While AOPA has been terrific in it’s approach to aviation medicine, this sponsorship is quite worrisome.  Please be very careful in considering this program.