2010 BC Guide in Determining Fitness to Drive

17.31 Private drivers who have declined an ICD or have an ICD implanted asprimary prophylaxisApplicationAssessment guidelinesFitness guidelinesOSMV determinationguidelinesConditionsRestrictionsRe-assessmentguidelinesThese guidelines apply to driver fitness determinations for privatedrivers who: have had an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)implanted as a primary prophylaxis, or have declined an ICD recommended as primary prophylaxisWhen implanted as a primary prophylaxis, the ICD is implanted toprevent sudden cardiac death in individuals considered to be at highrisk but who have not had an episode of ventricular arrhythmia.Individuals whose ICD also regulates pacing for bradycardia mustalso meet the guidelines for permanent pacemakers outlined in 17.29If further information regarding an individual’s medical condition isrequired, OSMV will request: a Driver’s Medical Examination Report additional information from the treating physician, or an assessment from a cardiologist.Individuals may drive if: they are assessed as NYHA Class I, II or III it has been at least 4 weeks since ICD implant (if applicable), and they have their ICD checked regularly at a device clinic and thechecks reveal no ICD malfunction.OSMV may find individuals fit to drive if: they are assessed as NYHA Class I, II or III, and if they have been treated with an ICD:- there is no evidence of ICD malfunction, and- they have not suffered an impaired level of consciousness ordisability as a result of delivery of ICD therapy within the pastsix months.OSMV will impose the following condition on an individual who hasbeen treated with an ICD and is found fit to drive: you must report to OSMV if you suffer an impaired level ofconsciousness or disability as a result of delivery of ICD therapy.No restrictions are required.If the individual’s condition is controlled and stable, OSMV will reassessevery five years, unless a shorter period is recommended bythe treating physician or routine age-related re-assessment applies.191