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MSWA Bulletin Magazine Summer 15 WEB

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Mandatory Reporting –

Mandatory Reporting – what is it? Sandra Wallace, Occupational Therapy Manager Driving is an ordinary daily activity for most Australian adults. In WA many of us rely heavily on our own cars to get about. The thought of not driving can trigger all sorts of worries: a change in lifestyle, reducing social, recreational and employment opportunities, loss of spontaneity and so on. The Department of Transport view it a little differently. They have the responsibility to ensure our roads are safe and that those with a licence to drive are actually safe to do so. Mandatory reporting legislation has been in effect for several years, but there are new laws and clearer guidelines for health professionals doing the assessing. This article attempts to answer some of the questions frequently asked about mandatory reporting requirements. Why new driver medical standards? Changes to driver medical standards reflect current knowledge. A major literature review was conducted by the Monash University Accident Research Unit, providing an evidence base for the effects of various medical conditions on driving ability and associated crash risk. They have been collecting data for many years now. This has contributed to the development of standards in the driver assessment process and recommendations. What type of health conditions might affect ability to drive safely? Driving is a complex task requiring good perception, judgement and response times as well as physical capability. Certain medical conditions, as well as some treatments and medications, may negatively impact on driving ability. Mandatory reportable medical conditions include any medical condition, mental disorder or physical disability that may impair a person’s ability to drive safely. Common examples include: • Neurological conditions including MS and epilepsy • Diabetes • Cardiovascular conditions • Sleep disorders • Alcohol and other substance misuse • Vision and eye disorders The presence of disease or a health condition does not mean a person cannot drive. The standards focus on functional ability, which is the impact on driving ability, rather than diagnosis. These guidelines have been revised with respect to multiple medical conditions and age-related change. 18 Summer 2015 The MS Society of Western Australia

Drivers have a legal responsibility to report their medical condition/s By legislation, drivers are required to report any medical concerns that may impact on their long term driving ability. When a person’s licence is due for renewal, or at initial application, drivers may be asked to complete a declaration regarding their health. Based on this information the licensing authority can request a medical examination. All drivers have a duty to declare their health status to the examiner. Failure to report impairment to the driver licensing authority can have insurance and legal consequences. Commercial and private driving standards Drivers of commercial vehicles undergo more stringent standards because of the increased associated risk. This may have employment implications for some drivers. The key question: is there a likelihood the person will be unable to control the vehicle and act or react appropriately to the driving environment in a safe, consistent and timely manner? How to report a medical condition (not just for people with MS) You can report a medical condition by either: • Filling out the notification of a medical condition form found on: transport.wa.gov.au/licensing/19056.asp OR • Writing a letter that includes: • Full details of the medical condition you are reporting; • Your full name and address; • Your date of birth; • Your daytime contact numbers; and • Your driver’s licence number • And post it to: Mandatory Reporting Team Department of Planning and Infrastructure GPO Box R1290 PERTH WA 6844 The process Once written notification has been received, the Department of Planning and Infrastructure (DPI) will review the information against the Standards and inform you in writing of any action required. Possible actions include: • No action required • Your driver’s licence needs to be updated to reflect relevant licence conditions, e.g. wearing prescription glasses while driving • You may be required to undertake and pass a medical assessment. They will advise you who to see for this • You may be required to take and pass a practical driving assessment You can call the MSWA OT Department on 9365 4888 if you have any further queries or concerns. Reference: Austroads (2012) Assessing Fitness To Drive for commercial and private vehicle drivers, Austroads Ltd Sydney multipleshirts The MS Society of Western Australia Summer 2015 19

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