Abstract
Drug misuse is common in the UK; inevitably, general practitioners treat patients who misuse drugs. Drug misuse and dependence can seriously impair driving ability. Driving while impaired by drug use poses a risk of criminal prosecution, as well as a risk of death or injury to the driver, their passengers and others. As doctors we have a duty of care to our patients and we are generally bound by confidentiality. However, we also have a wider duty of care to protect the general public from serious harm. This article looks at UK law alongside guidance from the General Medical Council and Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency to guide medical practice around this difficult area.
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