New GP guidance supports fairer assessments for older drivers
New clinical guidance for older driver assessments removes routine cognitive screening based solely on age, prioritising individual health evaluations to balance safety and independence.
Seniors Minister Casey Costello welcomed updated clinical guidance clarifying that older drivers should not face routine cognitive screening based on age alone. Health practitioners are now advised to assess each individual’s fitness to drive using clinical reasoning rather than age-based tests. The change aligns with the Better Later Life Action Plan, aiming to support older New Zealanders’ independence and mobility while ensuring road safety.
The guidance distinguishes between identifying cognitive impairment and determining driving ability, noting that cognitive screening tools alone cannot reliably predict safety on the road. Assessments must consider overall health, physical and cognitive function, medical history, and driving records, with input from health practitioners’ clinical judgement.
Ministry of Health advice for clinicians via HealthPathways was updated in July, followed by expanded guidance published by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners in collaboration with the Ministry. These updates implement recommendations from an independent University of Auckland review of cognitive testing and driving safety.
The review concluded that routine cognitive screening of otherwise healthy older adults lacks evidence-based support and that common screening tools are unreliable predictors of driving ability. Costello emphasised the importance of balancing independence with road safety, particularly for rural communities where driving is essential for connectivity.