Safe Driver Program

UM St. Joseph Medical Center's Safe Driver Assessment Program is an in-house pre-drive clinical assessment program. Our specially trained Occupational Therapist can determine the ability of individuals to drive safely.

The program targets individuals who are coping with the side effects of aging, amputations, arthritis, diabetes, dementia, low vision, multiple sclerosis, parkinsonism, stroke, brain injury or memory loss.

Our driving assessment consists of testing which provides a comprehensive analysis of an individual's cognitive functioning, visual perceptual skills, physical capabilities, and computerized brake reaction time. From these results, we can provide valuable feedback concerning an individual's readiness for driving.

This assessment does not include a behind-the-wheel driving test. Recommendations to private agencies are made if a patient is cleared and ready for a behind-the-wheel driving test.

The cost of Safe Driver Assessment is not covered by Medicare or commercial insurance.

Assessment Process

• An individual, family member or a physician may request this service. You physician referral must include "OT Driving Evaluation" with a diagnosis.
• Allow 2 hours for the assessment process.
• Results of the clinical Safe Driver Assessment are written in a concise summary report outlining the individual's driving capacities and impairments. This report will be mailed to the patient and faxed to the referring physician.
• A recommendation for further on-the-road/behind-the-wheel evaluation can be arranged with a local program.

The Safe Driver Assessment Program is staffed by a licensed Occupational Therapist with specialized training in clinical driver evaluation.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 410-337-1349.