Medical Examiner's certificate

Medical Examiner's certificate
Posted: Mon Jan 2, 2006 1:20:00 PM

I was declined a certificate because of a history of obstructive sleep apnea. I supplied the examiner with a letter from my doctor stating that I have persistant apnea that he is treating and I am O.K. to drive but she still refused to sign my card. I spoke with the medical director of the facility and he had the same attitude. My Epworth score is within the requirments and I have never been diagnose with EDS (Excessive daytime sleepiness). USDOT Federal Highway Administration Office of Motor Carriers Conference on Pulmonary/Respiratory Disordes and Commercial Drivers concludes;"Presently, researchers do not know how many apneas per hour of sleep are needed before the condition measurably affects driving performance" US Department of Transportation National Highway Trafic Safety Administration Medical Conditions and driving: A Review of the Literature (1960-2000)Pg 70 American Thoratic Society (1994) "Sleep apnea is "undoubtedly a risk factor, but is not invariably linked with impaired driving" (p.1466). Thus, "Efforts to reduce excessive driving risk should most sensibly be directed at selected paitents with excessive daytime sleepiness, rather than catagorically applied to anyone with apnea or with a certain number of apnea events" How can I cut through this red tape and get a medical card without hiring an attorney (already have but would like to avoid the fees)?

RE: Medical Examiner's certificate
Posted: Wed Jan 4, 2006 5:15:40 AM

Chris,
I think you are jumping the gun on getting a lawyer already. I would try another doctor first. If he/she won't release you to drive then you can try to get their decision appealed or changed. I can tell you if another doctor won't let you work, you are really fighting against the odds.