The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has enacted a significant rule change this November, bringing substantial benefits to thousands of professional bus, coach, and lorry drivers across the UK who live with diabetes.
Embracing Modern Diabetes Technology
From earlier this month, Group 2 drivers – those operating buses, coaches, and lorries – are now permitted to use advanced Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems (CGMS) to track their sugar levels while working. This marks a major shift from the previous requirement for drivers to rely solely on traditional finger-prick tests before and during their driving duties.
The technology represents a significant advancement, using sensors to provide real-time glucose readings without the need for skin-pricking. This change brings Group 2 drivers in line with their Group 1 counterparts – car and motorcycle drivers – who have been allowed to use CGMS technology since 2018.
Official Support for Improved Driver Welfare
Tim Moss, the chief executive of the DVLA, strongly endorsed the new measures. He stated that the update is designed to make life easier for drivers with diabetes while maintaining the highest standards of road safety for all users.
"By embracing modern technology, we're helping thousands of professional drivers manage their condition more effectively and with greater confidence," Mr Moss explained.
The change has been welcomed by health and industry leaders alike. Nikki Joule, policy manager at Diabetes UK, emphasised that this development will make a "huge difference" to professional drivers who manage their diabetes with insulin.
"Diabetes technology such as continuous glucose monitors can be transformative for people with diabetes, improving how the condition is managed and helping people live full lives," Ms Joule said.
Important Safety Protocols Remain
Despite this technological advancement, important safety protocols remain firmly in place. Group 2 drivers must still pull over safely if they need to confirm their glucose readings while on duty.
The Road Haulage Association has also expressed support for the change. Aaron Peters, head of technical, engineering and policy at the RHA, noted that diabetes awareness and monitoring have improved considerably in recent years.
"It's right that measures to help people who are affected reflect this," Mr Peters commented, highlighting the industry's approval of the DVLA's updated approach to diabetes management for professional drivers.
