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Brevard County (November 3, 2003) -- Health First and the East Central Florida (ECF) Memory Disorder Clinic are one of only four sites in the state of Florida to host DriveABLE, the first-scientifically-based program to evaluate the driving safety of persons with medical conditions.
The DriveABLE assessment, now available at the East Central Florida (ECF) Memory Disorder Clinic , 3361 S. Babcock St. in Melbourne, was developed through extensive research comparing the abilities and driving records of hundreds of healthy and medically compromised drivers. The comparisons identified driving errors that signal competence declines, and the maneuvers and conditions that reveal critical errors.
This assessment consists of two types of evaluations. During the first phase, clients are expected to complete a computer test that requires memory, judgment, decision-making, and attention to motor speed abilities. If questions remain about the person's driving abilities, a 40-minute road test encompassing a specifically designed road course is given.
"Even the best of drivers can become unsafe when medical conditions alter their abilities," said Carol Waters, Memory Disorder Clinic Director. "As important as it is to identify unsafe drivers, it is equally important to ensure that competent drivers maintain their driving privileges."
Access to the DriveABLE evaluation is by referral only and accepted from licensing authorities, physicians, insurance agencies, and private individuals under a doctor's guidance. Cost is $200 per exam and not reimbursed by Medicare.
For more information or to schedule an assessment, contact the ECF Memory Clinic at (321) 768-9575 or visit them on the web at East Central Florida (ECF) Memory Disorder Clinic .
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