MEDICALS 
NORTHWEST

Bus / Coach Driver medicals from £45, an assessment that all drivers must pass before being granted their license.

What is a Bus / Coach Drivers Truck medical?

A bus/coach driver medical, also known as a PCV (Passenger Carrying Vehicle) or PSV (Public Service Vehicle) driver medical examination, is a specialised medical assessment designed to evaluate the physical and mental fitness of individuals who drive buses and coaches in the UK and many other countries. This medical examination is crucial to ensure the safety of passengers and other road users, as bus and coach drivers are responsible for the transportation of passengers and operate large vehicles.

What’s involved in my medical?

1. Physical Examination:
   A comprehensive physical assessment is conducted to evaluate the overall health and physical fitness of the bus or coach driver. This may include checking vital signs like blood pressure, heart rate, and overall physical condition.
    

2. Vision Assessment:
   Vision tests are essential to ensure that the driver has adequate visual acuity, peripheral vision, and depth perception. Good vision is critical for safely navigating and operating a large vehicle.
    

3. Hearing Assessment:
   Adequate hearing is necessary for communication with passengers, fellow drivers, and emergency situations. Hearing tests may be conducted to evaluate hearing acuity.
    

4. Mental Health Assessment:
   A mental health evaluation may be included to assess the driver's mental well-being and cognitive function.
    

5. Review of Medical History:
   The medical examiner will review the driver's medical history, including any past injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions that could impact their ability to operate a bus or coach safely.
    

6. Medication Review:
   If the driver is taking any medications, the examiner may review them to determine if there are any side effects that could impair their ability to perform their job safely.
    

7. Cardiovascular Health Assessment:
   Due to the demanding nature of the job and the potential for long hours, cardiovascular health assessments may be conducted to check for conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or other cardiovascular issues.

What medical conditions could affect my application?

Successfully passing your medical examination involves a careful consideration of various medical factors that could potentially impact your ability to drive safely. Your appointed GP will carefully evaluate each of these factors. The good news is that the most frequent causes of non-compliance can often be easily resolved. 

For instance, it's not uncommon for drivers to encounter difficulties during their vision assessment due to an inadequate or outdated prescription for corrective lenses. In such instances, we strongly recommend a pre-appointment visit to an optician to ensure your vision meets the necessary standards.

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Similarly, elevated blood pressure readings can sometimes be attributed to stress, hurrying to the appointment, or underlying health conditions. For individuals who do not pass due to high blood pressure, we extend a complimentary re-test opportunity, allowing you to address and manage this concern.

While some medical conditions may be more serious and potentially create hurdles to passing the medical examination, effective management can often mitigate even the most severe conditions as barriers to obtaining or renewing your license. The surest way to determine your eligibility is through a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified medical professional.

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Book your medical appointment now.