Citation

Fisher BM, Storer AM, Frier BM. Br. Med. J. (Clin. Res. Ed.) 1985; 291(6489): 181-182.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1985, British Medical Association, Publisher BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

3926115

PMCID

PMC1416390

Abstract

The medical fitness of drivers who have diabetes is assessed primarily by general practitioners. A survey was made of the knowledge of driving and diabetes of 105 general practitioners in Glasgow. Ninety four (90%) knew that people who were insulin dependent were required by law to declare their condition to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Centre in Swansea, but most were unaware that people with diabetes should not hold a "till 70" driving licence. Seventy one doctors (69%) claimed that patients were recalled individually for fitness to drive. The minimum visual acuity for driving was stated correctly by 37 (35%). Only eight respondents knew that a hypoglycaemic diabetic driver can be charged with driving under the influence of a drug (Road Traffic Act 1972), and the practical advice that was given to patients about hypoglycaemia and driving was unsatisfactory. As a group the general practitioners showed deficiencies in knowledge regarding diabetes and driving, suggesting a need for further postgraduate education.

Language: en