title: Alcohol dependence and driving: knowledge of DVLA regulations.
abstract: Aims and Methods The UK's Driver Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) requires individuals to report if they have a medical condition such as alcohol dependence. General Medical Council guidance indicates that medical practitioners should ensure patients are aware of their impairment and requirement to notify the DVLA. Results In a survey of 246 people with known alcohol dependence, none were aware of advice on driving given by medical practitioners and none had self-reported. In addition, 362 doctors, either attending a college symposium or visiting a college website, were asked about their knowledge of DVLA regulations regarding alcohol dependence: 73% of those attending the symposium and 63% of those visiting the website answered incorrectly. In Scotland, over 20 000 people have alcohol dependence (over 1 million people with alcohol abuse), yet only 2548 people with alcohol problems self-reported to the DVLA in 2011. Clinical implications If the DVLA regulations were implemented, it could make an enormous difference to the behaviours of the driving public.
authors.affiliation: Ayr Hospital, Ayr.
authors.forename: Andrew
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Collier
authors.affiliation: Department of Public Health, NHS Ayrshire and Arran.
authors.forename: Maggie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Watts
authors.affiliation: Ayr Hospital, Ayr.
authors.forename: Sujoy
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Ghosh
authors.affiliation: Stracathro Hospital, Brechin.
authors.forename: Peter
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Rice
authors.affiliation: Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh.
authors.forename: Neil
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Dewhurst