Originally Posted by
parabellum
I see the words initial FAA medical . Not all AMEs are qualified to do the initial medical, only renewals, best to check before making firm arrangements.
Are you sure you are not getting it mixed up with the need for a student pilot certificate? Previously the Doctor was able to issue a medical certificate that was combined with a student pilot certificate for an initial issue. Now you have to get a separate student pilot certificate from the FAA via a flight instructor. As far as I am aware the FAA don't make a distinction between a renewal and an initial issue as far as AME privileges and a quick search has turned nothing up.