CDME Module 2: Vision, Hearing, Diabetes Mellitus-Revised Diabetes Standard

Revised Diabetes Standard – Federal Register Announcement

Pdf Summary

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has revised its regulations to allow individuals with stable insulin regimens and properly controlled insulin-treated diabetes mellitus (ITDM) to be qualified to operate commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) in interstate commerce. This rule enables a certified medical examiner (ME) to grant an ITDM individual a Medical Examiner's Certificate (MEC) for up to a maximum of 12 months. The rule also eliminates the need for the Federal diabetes exemption program. The final rule is effective November 19, 2018, and will result in a cost savings of $6.21 million per year. The rule does not include specific requirements for mandatory eye examinations or blood glucose levels for ITDM individuals, but emphasizes individualized assessment by the treating clinician (TC) and ME. The rule prohibits individuals with a history of severe hypoglycemic episodes from operating a CMV until evaluated by a TC and determined to have stable insulin management and proper control of ITDM. The rule requires ITDM individuals to self-monitor blood glucose and submit records to the TC for evaluation. The rule aims to provide individualized assessment and flexibility in the medical certification of ITDM individuals, while ensuring safety on the road. The final rule eliminates the requirement for CMV drivers with ITDM to obtain an exemption and streamlines the qualification process. Drivers with ITDM can obtain a medical examiner's certificate from a certified ME if they meet certain conditions. The rule allows drivers with ITDM to operate CMVs without an exemption if they have been evaluated by their TC and deemed physically qualified. The rule also removes the requirement for drivers participating in waiver study programs to obtain an exemption. The FMCSA estimates that the new rule will result in cost savings of approximately $6.35 million annually and ensures ITDM drivers can operate CMVs safely. This rule does not have significant economic impacts and is not considered to have significant environmental effects.

Keywords

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

FMCSA

regulations

insulin-treated diabetes mellitus

ITDM

commercial motor vehicles

interstate commerce

Medical Examiner's Certificate

diabetes exemption program

cost savings