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From: Natalie Hartenbaum, MD
Password: orange
Date: 28 Nov 2006
Time: 05:59:01 -0800
Remote Name:
68.42.22.142
Want to reinforce the fitness for duty concerns regarding a driver on dialysis. An examiner cannot restrict a driver's duties (not to operate vehicle on dialysis days, no long haul operations (making dialysis difficulty), no lifting (don't want to risk damaging shunt). The FMCSA has issued guidance (FAQ 90) on drivers as copied below. Note that the examiner does not have to accept the treating provider's recommendations.
Q. Is a driver on kidney dialysis disqualified?
A. At this time, there is no guidance from FMCSA. At the least, the examiner should require a letter from the treating doctor (nephrologist) outlining the condition, medications, and recommendation regarding certification. The examiner may or may not accept this recommendation. The driver must meet all criteria for certification. Restrictions other than those on the pre-printed form are disqualifying.