General

No CPD Points


This programme takes a close look at driving as one of the effects of our modern lifestyle on the eye.

There are many legal and moral issues surrounding eyesight and driving. Dr Kamlesh Chauhan articulates the problems with the current standard visual assessments for driving and gives examples of where these tests may not be sufficient. He stresses the need for a balance between individual and public safety and the optometrist’s duty of care and confidentiality.

Professor Joanne Wood, a leading authority on driving and vision, explains the outcomes of her research, including: the effect of cataracts on driving and the differences between night and day driving. She develops the idea that driving should be based on performance and a wide range of factors, rather than solely on age or disease status.

Professor Steve Taylor then clearly states the current regulations on driving and vision. He discusses the standards that must be met, how they are measured and what is done to enforce the regulations. He outlines the legal framework for optometrists and emphasises the necessity of awareness and sensibility to any ambiguities and grey areas.

This is one course in a series of four.

First published: December 2016
Last reviewed: September 2024

    Introduction (~2 mins)►

    Learning outcomes

    Learning outcomes

    Communication

    s.2 Communicate effectively with patients

    • Understand the best way to communicate how a person's vision and eye health impacts upon their driving ability.

    Professionalism

    s.4 Show care and compassion for your patients 

    • Understand the impact of common eye disease such as cataract upon the ability to achieve legal driving requirements and how this might be managed when they do not.

    s.11 Protect and safeguard patients, colleagues and others from harm

    • Understand how to develop a useful rapport with the patient to offer the best advice regarding driving and safety and what to do if there is concern about them meeting the legal requirement.
      Introduction (~2 mins)►