Successful completion of either an FAA medical certificate or BasicMed certificate requires much the same preparation as we do before we initiate a flight!  The pilot needs to decide what type of medical certificate is required to meet her/his needs, pre-flight the exam by   organizing the medical history and providing any information necessary for Special Issuance (if needed) and, if in doubt, asking questions from the AME or physician before the exam.           Randy Corfman PhD, MD, is a scientist, physician, aviation medical examiner, and pilot with over 9000 hours of flight experience. He's deeply involved in aviation organizations and shares his expertise through presentations and publications. Jerome Limoge Jr. MD, is an experienced aviator with a background in military service and civilian flight instruction. David Schall is an Aerospace Neurotologist with extensive experience in the Air Force and FAA, specializing in aviation medicine.