Traveling by air as a medical doctor can have its benefits, but there are also some important things to be aware of.
Do airlines keep track of passenger occupations?
Airlines do not systematically keep track of passenger occupations. When booking a flight, passengers are not asked to provide their occupation or profession. The airlines have no way of knowing if a particular passenger is a doctor unless the passenger voluntarily discloses this information.
Why would a doctor disclose their occupation to an airline?
There are a few reasons a doctor may choose to let the airline know about their medical profession:
- In case of a mid-flight medical emergency, they can volunteer to assist if needed
- To potentially get priority boarding or seating upgrades
- For discounts on medical conferences or events
- To notify the airline about carrying medical equipment
How can a doctor notify an airline of their occupation?
There are a couple ways a doctor can proactively let the airline know about their profession:
- Mention it when booking the flight. This info may be added to the reservation.
- Call the airline after booking and ask to add the info to the reservation.
- Bring a medical ID or doctor’s business card when checking in.
- Notify a flight attendant after boarding.
Rules for doctors volunteering during in-flight emergencies
If a medical emergency happens mid-flight, doctors can volunteer to help stabilize the passenger until the plane lands. However, there are important legal and ethical rules to consider:
- The cabin crew is in charge – doctors must follow their instructions
- Doctors should only provide urgent, lifesaving care and avoid complex procedures
- Informed consent from the patient or a relative is advised when possible
- Documentation is important for the medical record and liability protection
- Ethical standards of care, privacy and confidentiality must be maintained
Liability concerns
Despite Good Samaritan laws, doctors responding to in-flight emergencies may still face some legal risks. It’s wise for doctors to have malpractice insurance when traveling.
Policies vary among airlines
| Airline | Policy for Doctors |
|---|---|
| Delta | Actively recruits doctor passengers with SkyMiles incentives |
| United | No special policy, treats doctors like regular passengers |
| Emirates | Doctors can register their status to be called upon if needed |
| Qantas | Discounted “Doctor on Board” fares to medical conferences |
Each airline has their own policies regarding medical professionals. Doctors should check with the specific airline before their flight regarding any special provisions or requirements.
Conclusion
Unless a doctor voluntarily provides information, airlines have no routine way of identifying passengers as medical professionals. Doctors must follow important rules if responding to in-flight emergencies. Policies for accommodating doctor passengers vary among different airlines around the world.