Driving assessment:
Assessing driving potential of a person with disability is two step process;
1. Initial screening or pre-assessment phase which includes a review of the client’s medical history, current medical status, driving knowledge and ability to operate a motor vehicle on driving range and /or the public roadways.
2. Assessment phase which focuses on the driver candidate’s sensory-motor functioning, cognitive perceptual functioning, driving knowledge and the ability to operate a motor vehicle on a driving range or public roadways.
Role of Occupational TherapistTypically driving assessment is done by an experienced occupational therapist who has had experience of conducting psychometric tests and sound clinical knowledge. The Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO) Canada has designated assessment centers based on Ministry’s requirement. Recently, MTO made it mandatory for occupational therapist to have passed certified driver’s rehabilitation specialist. These examinations are conducted by The Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists. (ADED)
MTO’s new legislation identifies occupational therapist as having ability to report at their discretion (discretionary reporting) any person who, in the opinion of the occupational therapist, has or appears to have functional/cognitive impairment that may make it dangerous for the person to drive. For more information please Click Here
Opportunities for occupational therapists in India.This area of occupational therapy is still in non-existence or rudimentary stage. It is learnt that, occupational therapist are getting request from orthopedic surgeons especially Govt managed hospitals in Maharashtra State. They are mainly focusing on physical assessment and ignoring Visual-perceptual; cognitive assessment and In car assessment. Therefore, it is an urgent need for educating/training occupational therapist to select proper assessment tools, conducting interviews and develop assessment protocol.
Typical clients for driving assessment
- MVA client who lost licence after accident
- Progressive neurological condition such as Parkinson’s Disease; Multiple Sclerosis; ALS
- Acquired Brain Injury
- Client recovered after CVA or any surgical intervention
- Older seniors who is concerned about own driving abilities.