AOHC Encore 2023-111 Medical Impairment in NTSB Accident Investigations

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Michelle Waters, a medical officer with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), discusses how the NTSB evaluates medical impairment in transportation-related accidents. The NTSB is an independent federal agency that investigates civil aviation accidents as well as accidents in other transportation modes. The agency gathers facts, determines the probable cause of accidents, and makes safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.<br /><br />Dr. Waters explains that the NTSB evaluates whether a medical condition, its treatment, or the use/exposure to substances led to impairment or incapacitation that contributed to the accident. Medical impairment can be caused by loss or abnormality of psychological, physiological, or anatomical functions. The NTSB assesses the increased risk for medical impairment, whether impairment occurred, and whether it contributed to the accident. Medical impairment is evaluated in conjunction with operational, mechanical, and other factors.<br /><br />Dr. Waters also discusses the importance of autopsy reports, medical certification files, personal medical records, and toxicology results in these evaluations. Autopsy reports provide valuable information on the cause of death and the presence of medical conditions that may impact impairment. Medical certification files document any medical conditions or medications an individual has. Personal medical records provide insight into a person's health history and treatment. Toxicology results are used to determine the presence of substances that may impair performance.<br /><br />The video highlights some case examples that demonstrate how medical impairment can contribute to accidents. It also emphasizes the importance of considering all factors, including operational and mechanical aspects, when evaluating medical impairment. The NTSB aims to improve transportation safety by advocating for safety improvements and conducting independent accident investigations.

Keywords

Dr. Michelle Waters

medical impairment

transportation-related accidents

National Transportation Safety Board

NTSB

independent federal agency

civil aviation accidents

transportation modes

probable cause of accidents

safety recommendations