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Updated guidance for drivers with diabetes

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) and Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) have issued fresh guidance for drivers with diabetes. Starting 15 February 2019, the DVLA and DVA have given the approval to use flash glucose monitoring and continuous glucose monitoring as an alternative to finger-prick testing for glucose while driving Group 1 vehicles, which include cars and motorcycles. It is not applicable to drivers of large vehicles.

It is crucial for individuals with diabetes to monitor their glucose levels while driving, due to the risk of a hypoglycaemic episode which can impair the ability to drive safely and could significantly endanger the lives of the driver as well as others on the road. Until now, finger-prick testing was the only acceptable means of glucose monitoring while driving, although flash monitoring was being used by thousands of individuals on a regular basis to monitor their glucose levels in all other aspects of life.

Expressing delight at the decision, Nikki Joule, Policy Manager at Diabetes UK, said: " We look forward to keep on working with the DVLA to make sure people living with diabetes are treated fairly, and that everyone with the condition is able to hold a driving license if they meet medical fitness standards.”


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