Fit to drive following trauma/desease - is a short screening tool of value?

Purpose and goal

Mobility center in Gothenburg performs approximately 400 driving assessments per year, but the need in the region and Sweden is increasing as the population is ageing and/or medical conditions affecting safe driving. The aim of project was to identify and examine assessments methods, but also to create networks and conditions for a shorter assessment to be carried out in primary care settings. Specific methods have been identified and a network with potential partners has been set up for the next step of the development of best practice for driving assessments in primary care settings.

Results and expected effects

To reduce the risk for drivers with specific medical conditions and cognitive impairments, criteria for driving assessment methods and cognitive testing needs to be established. The present project has a number of cognitive tests been identified as appropriate screening instruments and verified by clinical data. A well-functioning and effective assessment can contribute to improved road safety. Thereby reducing the risk of road accidents caused by drivers with medical conditions and impaired cognitive functions that affecting the ability to drive safe.

Approach and implementation

Through the workshop and their co-workers, we have found potential partners from primary care settings in Västra Götaland, who have a need in starting driving assessments. A statistical analysis has shown that the tests used in the driving assessments at Mobilitetscenter can be useful and provide guidance when assessing patients´ fitness to drive. To continue the development of a new procedure in primary care settings, interpretation of such screening tests needs to be acceptable and supervised, for example by assessors from Mobilitetscenter.