Diabetes Management in Commercial Driver License Holders

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to evaluate diabetes management in Commercial Driver License (CDL) holders, how prescribing habits change when treating this patient population, and health care providers’ knowledge of regulations concerning insulin use in CDL holders. Methods A survey was posted on the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) Communities of Interest websites and was open for 2 weeks. The anonymous survey collected demographic data and evaluated the perspectives of health care providers on diabetes management in CDL holders. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the survey results. Results A total of 139 AADE members responded to the survey, and 22.2% were prescribing providers. Findings from the survey indicated an overall lack of knowledge by health care professionals regarding the current laws affecting diabetes management in CDL holders. Most participants emphasized the need for making decisions on CDL suspension on a case-by-case basis, and some expressed concern that current laws may not be appropriate. Conclusion Additional diabetes education for health care providers who treat CDL holders is warranted as many health care providers were not familiar with current regulations and management strategies.