Ask The Expert!
by Candy Harrington, editor of Emerging Horizons
Denied Boarding by MedLink
I have Fibromyalgia and Myofascial Pain disorder, and had a problem boarding a recent flight. While I was boarding I stumbled and fell while trying to maneuver the boarding ramp. Subsequently the airline contacted MedLink, discussed the incident with them, and then informed me I would not be able to fly until I had doctor's statement stating that I was fit to fly. Who is MedLink and what credentials do they have to decide that I am unable to fly?
MedLink supplies in-flight medical assistance and pre-flight passenger assessment by phone. They are staffed by board certified physicians and other professionals, and many airlines use this service. They act as a consultant to the airline in medically related matters.
They are typically called when there is passenger who wants to fly with oxygen — for assessment and for making the oxygen arrangements. They are also called when there is an in-flight emergency. And if the gate agent or flight crew suspects an individual is too ill or infirmed to make the trip, they contact MedLink for an assessment.
Typically MedLink works in an advisory capacity; and although they make a medical recommendation based on information supplied by the airline, the airline has the final authority to determine "fitness to fly". And although airlines can't deny passage solely because of a disability (say, just because you are in a wheelchair) they can if there a medically-supported concern that the flight will not be able to reach its destination without diverting to an alternate airport for a medical emergency. And that's what I believe happened in your case, as your fall triggered the whole evaluation process. They were probably concerned that you were injured in the fall. I'm sorry for your troubles, but the airline was just looking out for your best interest. Hopefully you'll have a better experience on your next flight.
— August 21, 2010
