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Article
Driving policy after seizures and unexplained syncope: a practice guide for RI physicians.
R I Med J (2013)
  • Maxwell E Afari, Maine Medical Center
  • Andrew S Blum
  • Stephen T Mernoff
  • Brian R Ott
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
1-3-2014
Disciplines
MeSH Headings
Automobile Driving, Humans, Neurology, Practice Guidelines as Topic, Practice Patterns, Physicians', Rhode Island, Seizures, Surveys and Questionnaires, Syncope
Abstract

Physicians in Rhode Island sometimes find it difficult to advise patients about returning to driving after they present with a seizure or syncopal episode due to lack of statutory or professional guidance on the issue. We provide an overview of the medical literature on public policies and recommendations regarding driving after seizures or syncope. We also present the laws in Rhode Island regarding physician notification of the medical advisory board of the Department of Motor Vehicles, legal obligations, and immunity from prosecution for those who report. Finally, we present the results of a survey of current practice by Rhode Island neurologists when they advise patients who have had a recent seizure or unexplained syncopal event. Based upon this information, we hope local practitioners are empowered in their decision making on driving restrictions and we hope this data informs future public policy efforts.

Citation Information
Maxwell E Afari, Andrew S Blum, Stephen T Mernoff and Brian R Ott. "Driving policy after seizures and unexplained syncope: a practice guide for RI physicians." R I Med J (2013) Vol. 97 Iss. 1 (2014) p. 40 - 43 ISSN: 2327-2228
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/maxwell-afari/2/