Clinical Assessment of Driving-Related Skills

A 90-min clinical assessment of visual, perceptual, motor, and cognitive skills performed by an occupational therapist who is a driving rehab specialist (DRS). 

This assessment tests the basic skills a person needs to be a safe driver. A person’s risk of having a potential motor vehicle accident is determined through this assessment. 

The testing will help predict how a person will react on-the-road in real-life driving situations. Immediate results and recommendations are provided at the end of the appointment.

On-Road Driving Evaluation

A 60-minute behind-the-wheel evaluation is completed in the rehab training vehicle.  This step is dependent on the results of the clinical assessment of driving related skills. 

A route consisting of all levels of traffic from residential to freeway allows our DRS to evaluate the multiple cognitive and physical skills necessary for safe driving. Immediate feedback and results will be provided. Recommendations will be made for improved safety, restrictions and/or vehicle modification if necessary. 

For many patients this is the last step of the comprehensive driving evaluation.

Driver's Training

In some situations, driver’s training is necessary. After completing clinical assessment of driving-related skills, it may be recommended that behind-the-wheel training sessions be completed with our DRS to learn how to safely use necessary equipment including left gas pedal and steering knob or strategies to improve driving techniques.

Hand Control Training

For patients who are unable to drive with their legs/feet, hand control training may be recommended pending the completion of the clinical assessment of driving-related skills. Behind-the-wheel training sessions may be recommended & completed with our DRS to learn how to safely use hand controls, secondary switches, various equipment, and strategies to learn new skills for safe driving. 

This is a lengthy process and requires several visits over the course of 1-2 months depending on the person abilities/limitations.

Reimbursement

Self-pay, vocational rehabilitation and some worker’s compensation

• Clinical assessment of driving related skills: $200
• On-road assessment: $150
• Training sessions: $150

Participation Requirements

• A signed order or referral for a comprehensive driving evaluation from a physician (MD/DO), nurse practitioner (NP) or certified physician's assistant (PA-C). Please send chart notes from the last 6 months supporting diagnosis.
• A current driver’s license/permit for on road driving evaluation

Please fax driving evaluation referrals to (208) 493-2988 or call (208) 385-3232.

Appropriate Timing for a Driving Evaluation

If a person has experienced a medical event resulting in a neurological injury or shows signs of decline, affecting cognition, vision and/or motor skills due to aging or illness a driving evaluation may be appropriate. If the physician has concerns about a person’s readiness to resume driving, they should be evaluated once they meet the following prerequisites: 

• When they are medically stable
• Seizures are controlled and no seizure activity in the last 3 months
• When recommended by a physician or treating occupational therapist
• When maximum rehabilitation has occurred
• When they are independent with their basic ADLs
• When they have mastered transferring between surfaces
• When they are emotionally/psychologically ready

Inappropriate Referrals

• A person who is unable to care for themselves, requires assistance with mobility and/or transfers, or is medically compromised 
• A person who does not have a valid driver’s license or legal matters regarding the status of their license except for teen drivers (see below)
• A person with psychiatric and/or mental health issue not currently managed by a medical provider
• A person who is being prescribed medication with side effects impacting cognition or ability to drive (narcotics/opioids)

Teen Drivers

St. Luke’s Driving Rehab Program and St. Luke’s Children’s Occupational Therapy work together to offer evaluation services for teen drivers through our Teen Driving Pathways. These services can help identify if a teen is ready to begin driver’s education or requires therapy to reach this goal.