Meet the Board: David C. Miller, DO, MPH, FAsMA

David C. Miller, DO, MPH, FAsMA, was elected to the ABPM’s Board of Directors in January 2023 and began his term as an Aerospace Medicine representative in August 2023.

Dr. Miller told us a little about his background, his goals for his time on the Board, and more, in our interview with him. You can learn more about Dr. Miller’s background here.

What led you to a career in medicine and, specifically, the specialty of Aerospace Medicine?

What a great question! The answer was born out of the very common, altruistic, almost overused answers of “I want to help people” and “I want to make a difference in the world”. I began by volunteering in a veterinary clinic, considering a career in veterinary medicine, and found a great focus on disease prevention. However, I also discovered that “the issue is usually not the issue”. In other words, the pet cat scratching the furniture, or the pet dog chewing on shoes was often a result of a deeper issue, usually in the pet’s owner. As I talked to pet owners, I found that “the mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation” (Thoreau). It was volunteering in veterinary medicine where I found my call to work with people who were suffering or were unable to identify and address underlying concerns that had tremendous impacts on their health, and the health of those around them. The decision for Aerospace Medicine was much easier! In high school Junior ROTC, I had the opportunity to participate in some familiarization flights and fell in love with aviation and the community. I became conflicted: do I help those who are suffering or pursue aviation? Thankfully, I found an advisor who offered, “Why not both?”

What is the value of board certification for you?

Board certification in Aerospace Medicine clearly identifies those who have had advanced training and experience in all aspects of the specialty, from undersea and hyperbaric medicine to cis-lunar orbit and beyond. Certification validates the education from high-value residencies that are focused on training leaders in the fields of Aerospace Medicine. The ability to successfully pass the rigorous examinations and complete an accredited residency or fellowships demonstrates to my patients (and my potential employers) that I have the capability to excel in any environment.

What do you hope to accomplish during your term on the ABPM’s Board of Directors?

I have two primary goals during my term with the Board of Directors. The first is to improve educational opportunities for those interested in our exciting specialty, including improving access to board certification exams at the end of residency and enhancing funding opportunities to allow more residents to attend and successfully complete the existing accredited programs. I have also had the opportunity to discuss an additional possible civilian residency that would be fully accredited and help support the increasing demand for civil and international aviation partners. The second is to boost the value of board certification, and the understanding of that value through projects that are not yet ready for open release…stay tuned!

What hobbies or other activities do you enjoy outside of work?

I really enjoy time in the outdoors, and the woods, lakes, and beaches of Maine in the fall and winter are the best times to experience the outdoors! Kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and yes, long walks on the beach are some of my favorite activities. To be honest, I spend a lot of that time looking under water or up into the sky, but it isn’t work if I’m having fun, right?

Is there anything else you’d like to share about yourself with the ABPM community?

I have a fantastic wife and two phenomenal daughters, and we get to share the outdoors together!