Which medical conditions require a Special Medical Examination?

Certain medical conditions necessitate a Special Medical Examination to ensure that individuals are fit for duty, particularly in roles that require commercial driving. Conditions like multiple sclerosis or sleep apnea can significantly affect a person's ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease that can impact neurological functions, leading to impaired coordination, vision, and cognitive abilities. Sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep, can cause excessive daytime sleepiness and poor concentration, which are critical for the attention required in driving.

Therefore, individuals with these conditions must undergo a more thorough evaluation to determine if they can safely perform their driving duties without posing a risk to themselves or others on the road. In contrast, common colds, flu, minor headaches, muscle strains, allergies, and skin rashes are generally not serious enough to require a Special Medical Examination, as they do not typically hinder driving capabilities in the way that the medical conditions listed do.