An Occupational Therapy Driving Assessment is designed to evaluate the impact of a medical condition on an individual’s driving abilities. It may be needed if an individual is returning to driving after an injury, or learning to drive with a disability. This assessment is performed by a highly trained Occupational Therapist. Occupational Therapists are experts in the field of rehabilitation and can assess a person’s ability to drive safely.
An occupational therapist specializes in driver rehabilitation and may conduct a comprehensive evaluation in an office setting or a clinic. The assessment will evaluate the physical and cognitive components of driving. If there are physical limitations, the Occupational Therapist may recommend specific driving training or modifications. The results of the evaluation will be shared with the driver and their family.
The driving assessment involves a series of physical, visual, and cognitive activities. It typically takes two hours. The OT works closely with a physician to determine an individual’s driving abilities. Once the assessment is completed, the occupational therapist will give the patient a comprehensive report with recommendations regarding his or her driving ability. Most insurance plans cover this type of clinical evaluation. To be eligible, an Occupational Therapist must be referred by a physician. A driving assessment may also be required if an individual has had a brain injury or has a condition that prevents them from driving safely.
OT Driving Assessment involves an on-road and off-road evaluation. Occupational Therapists may also be asked to provide a written assessment for their patients. In addition to this written report, the Occupational Therapist will also provide a professional recommendation. The report will then be forwarded to the health practitioner who requested the assessment. Once the health practitioner has determined the patient is fit to drive, they will issue the driver a permit or license.
The OT can also recommend lessons for the driver. Once the lessons are completed, a reassessment may be required. Depending on the severity of the disability, the driver may be recommended to take adaptive driving lessons or to undergo vehicle modifications. If an adaptation is recommended, the OT will provide a report to the client, the RMS, and the referring physician.
The results of the assessment are discussed with the client, his or her caregiver, and family. They will be provided with recommendations regarding safety, the need for further training, and how to apply new driving techniques. A written copy of the evaluation is provided to the referring physician and a caregiver. This assessment is designed to help individuals improve their mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Royal Rehab LifeWorks are experts in dealing with essential activities of daily living. This includes driving and community mobility. Their goal is to support the goals of their clients through education and reinforcement of their skills.