FAQ

In the UK, CPR training is available through several organisations:

St John Ambulance (sja.org.uk) — offers face-to-face courses, online learning, and free resources including video guides.

British Red Cross (redcross.org.uk) — provides face-to-face and blended learning CPR courses.

St Andrew’s First Aid (firstaid.org.uk) — based in Scotland, provides first aid and CPR training.

NHS and ambulance services — many ambulance trusts offer free community CPR training. Contact your local ambulance service to find out what is available in your area.

Resuscitation Council UK (resus.org.uk) — provides guidance on CPR training standards and a directory of recognised training providers.

Free online resources — the British Heart Foundation’s Heartstart programme and Resuscitation Council UK both offer free instructional videos and guides. These are not a substitute for hands-on practice but are a useful introduction.

You do not need formal training to act in a cardiac arrest emergency — calling 999 and following the dispatcher’s instructions is sufficient. However, even a short training course significantly increases confidence and effectiveness.

Category: Practical Issues

The Circuit is the national defibrillator network for the UK, operated by the British Heart Foundation on behalf of NHS England. It is a register of publicly accessible AEDs \u2014 defibrillators that can be used by any bystander in an emergency.

When you call 999 about a cardiac arrest, ambulance dispatchers can access The Circuit to identify and direct bystanders to the nearest registered AED, potentially saving vital minutes.

You can also search for AED locations yourself at thecircuit.org.uk or via the NHS app.

If you have a defibrillator \u2014 in a sports club, workplace, school, church, or community building \u2014 registering it on The Circuit means it will show up to 999 dispatchers in an emergency. Registration is free and takes only a few minutes. It could mean the difference between life and death for someone in your community.

Category: Practical Issues

Life insurance is available after cardiac arrest and with an ICD, but it will typically be more expensive than standard rates and some providers may decline certain types of cover. The market varies considerably between insurers, so it is important to shop around and use a specialist broker where possible.

When applying for life insurance, you are required to disclose your medical history, including your cardiac arrest and any devices or conditions. Failing to disclose is likely to make any claim invalid. Insurers will usually ask for details of the event, the cause, your current medications, device type, and the results of your most recent cardiac review.

Some policies may be available at standard rates, particularly if the cardiac arrest occurred some years ago, the cause has been fully treated, you have a well-functioning ICD, and there are no other significant health conditions. Others will be offered at "loaded" (increased) premiums, or with exclusions for cardiac-related claims.

For those who cannot obtain standard life insurance, options include over-50s guaranteed acceptance plans (which do not require medical questions but typically pay a fixed sum) and specialist insurers who focus on people with pre-existing medical conditions.

The British Heart Foundation produces guidance on insurance for people with heart conditions. Specialist financial advisers experienced in this area can help identify the most suitable options.

A cardiac arrest does not mean life insurance is impossible — it means you need to look harder and possibly pay more.

Category: Implantable Devices

Moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe for most people with ICDs, but there are some important considerations.

Alcohol can affect heart rhythm. Even in healthy people, heavy alcohol consumption can trigger atrial fibrillation ("holiday heart") and, in people with certain underlying conditions, ventricular arrhythmias. For people with inherited arrhythmia conditions such as Brugada Syndrome, alcohol — particularly in large quantities — can be a recognised trigger for dangerous arrhythmias and should be avoided or very strictly limited.

For most ICD patients, the general advice is to drink sensibly and within the recommended UK guidelines (no more than 14 units per week, spread across three or more days, with alcohol-free days). Binge drinking should be avoided.

Alcohol can also interact with some cardiac medications. For example, certain antiarrhythmic drugs and blood-pressure medications are affected by alcohol. Ask your pharmacist or cardiac team about any specific interactions with your medications.

If you are unsure what is safe for your specific condition, discuss it with your cardiologist or device clinic. They can advise based on your diagnosis, your device settings, and the medications you take.

Category: Implantable Devices

Doctors use the following guidelines from the DVLA to help them assess whether someone is medically fit to drive.

DVLA Guidelines for assessing fitness to drive for medical professionals

Category: Practical Issues

There is no specific legal requirement for employers to provide defibrillators in the workplace. The Health and Safety Executive’s syllabus of first aid training for offshore installations does include the use of defibrillators, but this is not extended to onshore first aid. However, the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981 do not prevent an employer from providing defibrillators that could benefit both their employees and the public.

For information on workplace health and safety legislation please refer to the Health and Safety Executive’s website.

Category: Practical Issues

If you think an AED should be installed in your workplace, read the Guide to AEDs written by Resuscitation Council UK and the BHF as this will answer your questions in detail. If you wish to proceed, contact your local ambulance service for further advice as described in the Guide.

Category: Practical Issues

It is very unlikely that someone in the UK who acted in good faith when trying to help another person would be held legally liable for an adverse outcome. No such action has ever been brought against someone who performed CPR and, in general, the courts in the UK look favourably on those who go to the assistance of others.

Resuscitation Council UK has published detailed guidance on the legal status of those who attempt resuscitation. This provides answers to most of the commonly asked questions on the subject.

Category: Practical Issues

No. In the UK, it is very unlikely that someone who acted in good faith when trying to help a person in cardiac arrest would face any legal liability. No action has ever been successfully brought against a bystander who performed CPR in the UK. The courts look favourably on those who go to the assistance of others in an emergency, and performing CPR on someone in cardiac arrest cannot make their situation worse. If you are concerned, the important thing is simply to act — calling 999, starting CPR, and using a defibrillator if one is available. For specific legal questions, the Resuscitation Council UK provides further guidance.

Category: Defibrillators

Given the short duration of security screening, it is unlikely that your heart device will be affected by metal detectors (walk-through archways or hand-held wands) or full-body imaging scanners (millimetre wave or 3D imaging scanners) such as those found at airports, concert venues, and courts.

The metal casing of your heart device may set off a metal detector. To minimise any risk of interference, avoid touching metal surfaces around screening equipment, and walk through archways at a normal pace without stopping or lingering.

If a hand-held wand is used, ask the security officer not to hold or wave it directly over the area where your device is implanted. You can request a manual pat-down search as an alternative. Show your device ID card if you have it. If you have any concerns, explain your situation to security personnel and follow their instructions.

Category: Implantable Devices

Intimacy is a normal part of life. We understand patients resume sexual activity when they feel comfortable. However, if you have a question, it may be helpful to have a conversation with your doctor.
If in doubt about an activity, always discuss it with your doctor or nurse.

Category: Intimacy

Generally, your device will not keep you from most activities and hobbies (e.g., bowling, golfing, playing tennis, gardening, fishing, etc.).

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes, you can ride a bike with an ICD. However, if using a stationary exercise bike, keep the wheel magnet at least 15cm (6 inches) away from your heart device. Always check with your doctor or device clinic if you have any specific concerns.

Category: Sports

They may feel something if you are touching them when you receive a shock, just as they might if you were touching out of the water. They will not be affected differently because you are in a pool.

Category: Implantable Devices

Remember to discuss exercise with your doctor and follow any recommendations based on your health needs.

Category: Implantable Devices

Always carry your heart device ID card. This card is helpful if your heart device sets off a metal detector or a security system.

Category: Implantable Devices

Some people wrap a towel around the seat belt. You also may want to check out seat belt pads.

Check out our ICD Protection page for information on commercial products to protect your ICD

Category: Driving

Some physical activities may be restricted depending on your medical condition or concerns about physical stress on your ICD. Consult with your doctor about activities to avoid, if any.

Category: Implantable Devices

Wherever you travel, your heart device monitors your heart and provides therapy whenever it is needed. You can travel knowing that support for your heart device is available around the world. Your doctor may also be able to check your heart device remotely, so it may be a good idea to let your doctor know when and where you will be traveling.

Category: Implantable Devices

If you receive a shock during intercourse, stop and notify your doctor just as you would if it happened during exercise. Your partner will not be hurt by the shock. He or she may feel a tingle or a slight muscle spasm, but nothing more.

Category: Implantable Devices

If your air bags go off while you are in a car, whether you have an ICD or not, seek immediate medical attention.

Category: Driving

While ICD components are protected in titanium cases, you should still avoid activities that may involve hard physical contact.

Category: Implantable Devices

Pressure ratings can vary among ICD models. Typical diving depths can range from 50 to 100 feet. Always check with your doctor about scuba diving restrictions.

Category: Implantable Devices

Full body imaging scanners (also called millimeter wave scanners and 3D imaging scanners) are used in airports, courthouses, prisons and other public facilities. Your ICD is not likely to be affected because the scanning takes only a short time.

Category: Implantable Devices

Aviation transponder receivers are used to track the location of an aircraft. They are designed to receive signals only from aircraft transponders and pose no threat to your ICD.

Category: Implantable Devices

When jump starting an engine, maintain at least 24 inches between the jumper cables and your ICD.

Category: Driving

For some electric vehicles, there may be safety precautions when charging the battery. For example, you may not be able to sit in the vehicle while it is charging. Check with the car’s manufacturer for guidelines.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes, it is safe to drive an electric car if you have an ICD or other heart device.

Category: Implantable Devices

Cosmic rays consist of high-energy radiation that strikes the earth from space. Most of these flares and rays are absorbed in the atmosphere and are unlikely to affect an ICD once they reach the ground.

Category: Electromagnetic interference

Yes. You can work on your car as long as there is no medical reason to avoid working around engines. You should, however, keep at least 12 inches between your ICD and parts of the car’s ignition system.

Category: Implantable Devices

You should keep at least 12 inches between your ICD and parts of the car’s ignition system.

Category: Implantable Devices

There are no risks from using a heated car seat because there is at least 6 inches between the seat’s electrical components and your ICD. So continue to enjoy this small luxury during the winter months.

Category: Driving

Using a vibrator poses no risks. Just make sure the vibrator is in good working condition and has no electrical problems.

Category: Implantable Devices

A momentary shock will not permanently damage your ICD. A memorable (longer) shock may cause some ICD settings to be reset to nominal values. Your doctor can restore your individual settings in the clinic.

Category: Implantable Devices

Riding a motorcycle is considered a low-risk activity and so it is usually permitted. However, this may vary depending on any medical conditions you have and your applicable driving laws, so do consult your doctor first.

Category: Driving

No inappropriate interactions between ICDs and hybrid vehicles have been reported, so it’s a low risk.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes, keep wearing your seatbelt. If it hurts or creates pressure near your device, just put some padding between you and the belt.

Category: Implantable Devices

The ship’s radar is normally located far enough from any public areas that it won’t affect your ICD.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes. Taking a cruise is safe with an ICD. The ship’s radar equipment is located well away from passenger areas and is very unlikely to interfere with your device.

Before travelling, make sure you carry your device ID card at all times, as it contains important information about your device and may be needed at port security. It is also worth contacting your travel insurer to confirm your cover — see our FAQ on travel insurance for more information. Let your device clinic know you are travelling so they can advise on remote monitoring arrangements if needed.

Category: Intimacy

Skiing will not interfere with your ICD. Whether you are able to ski depends on your overall medical condition and your cardiologist’s guidance, not the device itself.

Most people return to skiing and other physical activities after a full recovery from ICD implantation. Discuss any concerns with your cardiologist before you travel, particularly if you have an exercise-triggered condition, or if high altitude is relevant to your heart condition.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes. Riding on a train or tram poses a very low risk of interference with an ICD. However, we recommend talking to your cardiologist before your journey up the mountain, as there are lower oxygen levels at high altitudes.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes. In the UK you are legally required to inform the DVLA if you have a condition or device that may affect your ability to drive safely. Having an ICD is a notifiable condition.

For Group 1 licences (car and motorcycle), there is typically a period of driving restriction following ICD implantation — usually six months — and further restrictions may apply if your device delivers a shock. For Group 2 licences (lorries and buses), the restrictions are stricter and in many cases permanent.

You should notify the DVLA using the appropriate medical questionnaire, available on GOV.UK. Your cardiologist or device clinic can support you with this process and provide any necessary medical information. You should also inform your motor insurer, as failing to disclose a relevant medical condition can invalidate your policy.

Always check the current DVLA guidance, as the rules are updated periodically. The full guidance is available at www.gov.uk/dvla/medicalenquiries.

Category: Implantable Devices

No. Not only is your ICD built to withstand stress, but your body temperature stays fairly constant as well.

Category: Implantable Devices

Exposure to pressures greater than 4 ATA is not recommended. That means diving no deeper than about 100 feet or 30 meters in seawater. Talk to your doctor about that and about any other concerns with scuba diving and your heart condition.

Category: Implantable Devices

Boxing shouldn’t interfere with your ICD, although a blow to the device area could possibly dislodge one of the leads. (Just don’t fight anyone good.)

Category: Implantable Devices

Induction cooktops are very haute in the world of cuisine, but they do pose a concern to ICDs. Instead of heating up themselves, they use magnetic energy to heat the pan, made of steel, aluminum or copper. Therein lies the rub. Because of the magnetic fields, make sure your device is at least 2 feet away from the cooktop.

Category: Implantable Devices

Pet shock collars for electric pet fences, including remote controls and bases with antennas, should be kept six inches away from your heart device.  Buried wires should be at least 12 inches from your ICD.

Category: Practical Issues

Heart devices such as ICDs are very tough and in normal day to day activities shouldn’t require any extra protection. However, if you would prefer to have an additional layer of protection there are a number of options available and these can be found on our ICD Protection page.

Category: Implantable Devices

Electromagnetic interference has only a temporary effect on ICDs. Once the device no longer detects the EMI, it will resume normal function. Don’t hold magnets within 6 inches of your device because that can temporarily disable the defibrillator.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes. Plumbing work is generally safe for people with ICDs. The tools and materials used in most plumbing tasks do not generate electromagnetic fields that would affect your device.

If your work involves power tools with electric motors, apply the standard precaution of keeping the motor at least 15cm (6 inches) from your device. If you work near large pump motors or industrial electrical systems, the same principles as for other industrial environments apply — discuss your specific work environment with your cardiologist or device clinic if you have concerns.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes. Lasers are light energy and shouldn’t mess with your ICD. However, some magnets or transmitters in laser tag vests may interfere with your ICD, so keep it 6 inches away from your device.

Category: Insurance

In the UK, holding an ICD will prevent you from holding a Group 2 licence, which covers lorries (LGV/HGV) and buses (PCV). If you currently hold a Group 2 licence, having an ICD implanted will typically result in its revocation by the DVLA.

This can be a significant and distressing consequence for professional drivers, and it is worth discussing the implications with your cardiologist before implantation where possible. In some circumstances, alternatives to ICD therapy may be considered, though this is always weighed carefully against the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.

If you drive professionally and have been told you need an ICD, speak to your cardiologist and contact the DVLA for specific guidance on your situation. Occupational health support from your employer may also be available.

Category: Implantable Devices

In the UK, having an ICD or the underlying heart condition that led to its implantation will almost always prevent you from holding a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) medical certificate, which is required to fly as a pilot of any category.

This applies to Private Pilot Licences (PPL), Commercial Pilot Licences (CPL), and Airline Transport Pilot Licences (ATPL). The CAA assesses each case individually, but conditions such as ventricular arrhythmia and ICD implantation are considered disqualifying in the vast majority of circumstances due to the safety implications of sudden incapacitation at altitude.

If you are a trained pilot and are facing ICD implantation, it is worth seeking specialist aviation medical advice early — ideally from an Aeromedical Examiner (AME) — before any decisions are made, so that all options are fully understood. In very limited circumstances, some pilots may be able to fly in certain categories with specific conditions, but this is rare and assessed on a case-by-case basis.

More information is available from the UK Civil Aviation Authority at www.caa.co.uk.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes. Remember to discuss exercise with your doctor, and follow their guidelines based on your own health needs. It’s always best to ease back into a fitness routine. Walk before you jog, jog before you run, etc…

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes. Exercise is actively encouraged for most people with ICDs. Physical activity supports heart health, mental wellbeing, and recovery. An ICD is not implanted to limit you — it is there to protect you if a dangerous arrhythmia occurs.

The type and intensity of exercise that is appropriate depends on your underlying condition and your cardiologist’s guidance. Most people can resume moderate exercise such as walking, swimming, and cycling after a full recovery from the implant procedure. Some may be advised to avoid very high-intensity exercise or competitive sport, particularly if they have an exercise-triggered arrhythmia condition.

Cardiac rehabilitation is an excellent starting point for rebuilding fitness safely after cardiac arrest or ICD implantation. Ask your GP or cardiac team for a referral.

Category: Sports

First of all, congratulations on your bravery.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes, coffee is generally safe in moderate amounts. Caffeine is a natural stimulant and can cause an increase in your heart rate, but moderate amounts should not be enough to cause any problems with your device.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes. Swimming is safe with an ICD once you have fully healed from the implant procedure. Most people are advised to avoid swimming for around four to six weeks after implantation to allow the wound site to heal properly and to reduce the risk of lead dislodgement while the leads are bedding in.

After recovery, there are no specific restrictions on swimming for most ICD patients. If you swim in open water, it is sensible to go with a companion, as it is with any open water swimming.

If your cardiac arrest was caused by an inherited condition such as CPVT or Long QT Syndrome, where exercise or cold water can trigger arrhythmias, discuss specific restrictions with your cardiologist.

Category: Implantable Devices

It’s important for any healthcare provider you see to know about your implanted devices, as well as the medical conditions that relate to them. It’s simply in your best interest. Lots of people find their ID card to be a good icebreaker when starting a conversation with a new doctor, clinician, or dentist.

Category: Implantable Devices

Wireless modems and routers are safe to use as long as you keep them at least 6 inches away from your ICD.

Category: Implantable Devices

Yes, you can use mobile phones. However, mobile phones may cause electrical interference with your heart device when the phone is turned on and held too close to your heart device. Also, some accessories for mobile phones contain magnets that may cause interference, such as earbuds or cases with magnetic clasps. Any effect is temporary, and simply moving the phone or accessory away will return the heart device to its previous state of operation.

Category: Implantable Devices

Definitely. Just keep them 6 inches away from your ICD.

Category: Implantable Devices

Welding with currents above 160 amps may temporarily affect normal ICD function. Check with your doctor. They might not know much about welding, but they can talk to you about interference with your ICD. Note: Aprons or vests will not effectively shield the ICD from the electromagnetic energy generated by welding equipment. Follow these safety precautions to avoid interference:

Category: Implantable Devices

Get your yard maintenance on. It’s fine to use a powered lawnmower as long as you keep some distance between the running mower and your ICD. For electric motors, stay 6 inches away. If you’re using a gas-powered mower, keep the ignition (spark plug area) at least a foot away from your heart device.

Category: Implantable Devices

Always carry your heart device ID card. This card is helpful if your heart device sets off a metal detector or a security system.

Category: Implantable Devices

In the UK, driving after receiving an ICD is governed by DVLA regulations, not solely by your doctor’s assessment.

For Group 1 licences (car and motorcycle), a driving ban of at least six months typically applies following ICD implantation. If your ICD delivers a shock that causes or could have caused incapacity, a further period of restriction applies. Once the restriction period has passed and your cardiologist confirms your condition is stable, you can usually resume driving.

For Group 2 licences (lorries and buses), the restrictions are much stricter. Having an ICD typically results in permanent revocation of a Group 2 licence in most circumstances. This can have significant implications for professional drivers.

You are legally required to notify the DVLA and your motor insurer. Your cardiologist or device clinic will advise you on when it is medically appropriate to resume driving, but the final determination is made by the DVLA. Always check the most current guidance at www.gov.uk/dvla/medicalenquiries.

Category: Implantable Devices

Hut-hut-hike yourself to your heart’s content. Football probably won’t interfere with your ICD, and most people resume physical activities after recovering from surgery. The potential for tough contact is a concern to talk with your doctor about but can likely be avoided with your sweet moves!

Category: Sports

Intimacy is a normal part of life. We understand patients resume sexual activity when they feel comfortable. However, if you have a question, it may be helpful to have a conversation with your doctor.
If in doubt about an activity, always discuss it with your doctor or nurse.

Category: Implantable Devices

Wherever you travel, your heart device monitors your heart and provides therapy whenever it is needed. You can travel knowing that support for your heart device is available around the world. Your doctor may also be able to check your heart device remotely, so it may be a good idea to let your doctor know when and where you will be traveling.

Category: Travelling

There are no restrictions for swimming in pools with your device and they are safe as long as there is no electrical current leakage into the water.

Category: Sports

Probably.

Category: Sports

Ask your doctor about this one before you ride. Some coasters restrict people with heart conditions. Other times shoulder harnesses can be very uncomfortable on the implant site, or even cause damage.

Category: Practical Issues

The simple answer is yes, but usually only temporarily.

The length of the period that you cannot drive for is mainly dependent on the cause of your cardiac arrest and the remedial action taken.

For example, if you had a heart attack as the cause and you had stents and medications to prevent future episodes then the period to stop driving would typically be 1 month.

If you had to have an ICD fitted then the period that you had to stop driving would typically be 6 months from the date of the implant – not the date of the cardiac arrest

Category: Implantable Devices

It may be possible, it depends on whether you satisfy the criteria for Section 88 of the Road Traffic Act.

See “What is Section 88” for more information.

Category: DVLA

You can find information and the status of your driving licence by using the government licence check facility.

You will need your driving licence number, national insurance number and postcode.

You can see details about who the licence is for when it is valid from/to, the current status, what vehicles you can drive, any penalties or disqualifications.

You can also get a code so that you can share your licence details with another party such as an employer or car hire company.

Category: Driving

The official advice is that you should inform your insurance company of your heart condition and implant (ICD/pacemaker) if you have one.

However, from our members experience most insurance companies do not seem to be interested in the fact that you have had a cardiac arrest. If you have a valid licence to drive then they are generally happy to take your money and insure you.  

Of course, if you are on a prolonged suspension and your car isn’t going to be used you may wish to speak to them to alter your level of cover and potentially save a few pounds.

Category: Driving

If at any time you receive an appropriate shock from your ICD i.e. one that is correcting a potentially fatal arrhythmia, you must surrender your licence and stop driving for 6 months.  

If you were incapacitated i.e. went unconscious whilst you received the shock the suspension is 2 years. This may be reduced to 6 months if your cardiologist takes steps to prevent any further events requiring a shock eg starting or adjusting medications.

If you receive an inappropriate shock i.e. the shock was unnecessary, then you will receive a 1 month suspension.

If you are driving whilst you receive a shock you should stop as soon as is safe to do so, and should not continue until the cause of the shock has been investigated.

For more information about shocks see our ICD shocks page.

Category: Implantable Devices

Section 88 refers to a part of the Road Traffic Act that may allow you to continue driving even if you do not physically have your driving licence.

There is a provision in the law, under section 88 that MAY allow you to drive while the DVLA process your application.

You must meet the following criteria:

• You must be confident that your application will not be refused due to any medical condition you declared.
• You must have held a valid driving licence and only drive vehicles you are qualified to drive.
• You must meet any conditions specified on your previous licence
• You must have sent your fully completed application (re-application) to DVLA in the last 12 months
• Your licence has not been refused or revoked
• You are not disqualified from holding a licence by a court

If you fulfil these points you can drive again even though your licence has not been returned to you.

DVLA cannot tell you if this section of the law applies to you.

For more information read the government leaflet on Section 88

Category: Section 88

Once your advised period of voluntary surrender has elapsed you will be able to re-apply again and have your licence returned to you.  

You can find information on this process on the government website and a link to download the relevant form.

Once you have mailed this you will receive a letter from DVLA stating that they have written to your consultant with an expected 6-week turnaround.  You do not need to do anything further other than call them back on several occasions as this part of the process takes a long time!

The DVLA will send your cardiologist forms to get more information about your cardiac status.  Your cardiologist will need to sign these forms to say they should issue you with a licence. This all takes time, and it’s a good idea to chase your cardiologist to make sure you’re not forgotten.

It’s also worth starting the process a good 8 weeks before the date your period of driving restriction ends.

If your licence was revoked, as opposed to voluntarily surrendered, you may find that the process to get your licence back longer and more arduous.

Category: Driving

See the “How can I view my licence information and status” FAQ on how to do this.

Category: Driving

In the SCA UK Facebook Group we are seeing an increasing number of members who get their licence revoked when they voluntarily surrender it.

At this time it is not clear why this happens as we have seen members with apparently similar circumstances have different outcomes.

The DVLA can revoke your licence on medical grounds and it may be the differences in the details that they make their decision but for now, it is a bit of a mystery.

Our only advice would be to not use the online form but as soon as possible fill in the paper forms and send in your licence stating that you are voluntarily surrendering your licence. This is because anecdotal evidence from the group indicates that if you use the online form it appears you’re more likely to get your licence revoked.

Remember if your license is revoked you cannot use Section 88 rules to drive until your license is reinstated.

Category: Driving

It is YOUR responsibility to tell the DVLA about a health or medical condition that could affect your driving.

You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving.

You can do this via the “Report a medical condition” page.

You’ll need to enter details about your current driving licence and your condition. You might also need to give your GP’s name and address.

How this will affect your ability to drive will depend on what the cause of your cardiac arrest was, any remedial treatment you have had and any subsequent or other conditions you have.

You will have to enter or select from a list of conditions that you have and may affect your ability to drive.

The list is quite long and covers many conditions but you will NOT find cardiac arrest amongst them as it is an event, rather than a condition.

Conditions that are on the list and may apply to cardiac arrest survivors:

• Heart attacks (Angioplasty, stents)
• Having an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
• Brugada syndrome
• Catheter Ablation
• Cognitive problems
• Congenital heart disease
• Arrhythmias
• Heart Failure
• Hypoxic Brain Injury
• Long QT Syndrome
• Severe memory problems
• Pacemakers
• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Fainting/Syncope
• Tachycardia
• Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome

Category: DVLA

The date of your suspension will usually start from the date that you have any remedial work or get a formal diagnosis of a condition, not necessarily the date of your cardiac arrest.

For example, if you have a cardiac arrest and 2 weeks later get an ICD implant, then the suspension will start from the date of the implant, not the arrest.

If you have a heart attack as the cause of your cardiac arrest, the problem is often looked at and dealt within a short time frame (same day) so the suspension will start from that day.

Category: Implantable Devices

It will largely depend on your individual circumstances and medical conditions but common suspension periods are as follows:

If you had a heart attack as the cause of your cardiac arrest and it was remedied with medications and/or stents then the suspension period is 1 month.

If you had to have an ICD fitted then the suspension period will be 6 months from the date of the implant. If you have any shocks further suspensions will apply and the length will vary depending on a number of factors. See “Can I drive if I get a shock from my ICD” for more information.

You may also have to temporarily stop driving if your anti-arrhythmic medications are changed, typically for 1 month.

If your driving licence was revoked you’ll have to wait until all medical enquiries are complete. You will also need to have your driving licence back before you can start driving again.

You can check the DVLA information for medical professionals regarding assessing fitness to drive here, and this shows the rules regarding whether you can drive or not and if not, for how long.

Category: Implantable Devices

Full contact details of the DVLA Medical Group are on this page on the government website

Category: Driving

You must use the DEFIB1 form which can be downloaded from the government website on this page.

If you are a coach, bus or lorry driver you must use the VOCH1 form.

Category: Implantable Devices

This is one for your doctor.

You should be assessed by your doctor using these guidelines which determine the rules for assessing drivers with cardiac conditions.

Many of the conditions listed will mean that there will be some period of suspension, but you may be allowed to drive again if you can meet certain conditions including assessment by a specialist cardiologist.

However, if you have an ICD implanted you will not be able to drive an HGV or commercial vehicle.

Category: Implantable Devices

No.

The length of your suspension can vary depending on a number of factors including but not limited to cause of your cardiac, remedial actions taken, subsequent or other conditions.

It may seem tempting to compare one person’s case with another but it is often difficult to do so because of not having the full facts about a person’s situation.

Category: Driving

If you are unable to drive because of your cardiac arrest and you are in a position to return to work, you may apply for the “Access to Work” scheme which may help with other transport costs, such as public transport or even private taxi’s.

For example, a member of SCA UK who was a teacher when she had her SCA was unable to return to work because she had an ICD fitted and this meant a driving suspension period of 6 months. She lived in the country and there was no suitable public transport to get her to her school. The “Access to Work” scheme gave her a grant to allow her to get a taxi to and from her place of work.

If you can get to work by public transport you might be able to get reduced price travel such as a Disabled Person’s Railcard. If your licence has been revoked for medical reasons, you are entitled to a free bus pass in most areas. In Northern Ireland, you can get a SmartPass giving you half price travel. In London, you can get a Freedom Pass. Apply through your local council.

Category: Driving

If you are worried about the safety of someone’s driving, it can be a tricky subject to talk about. But it’s vital to make them aware of your concerns, not just for their safety, but for the safety of others on the road.

If a person has been driving for many years it can be hard to suddenly stop, and it can change the way they see themselves. So they may need support and guidance from family, friends and professionals.

Sometimes survivors find it difficult to recognise the effects of the event. It can also affect your judgement and, in rare cases, someone can be unaware they have a disability. This is called anosognosia.

Family members and professionals may need to remind them that they can no longer drive because of the potential risk to themselves and others. You could read this together and talk about the other ways of getting around, and plan some of the journeys they might want to make using alternative types of transport.

If you feel that the person is not safe to drive and they refuse to stop driving, you can write to the DLVA in confidence online. 

Category: Driving

If you are able to return to driving, the choice of when and how to do it is a personal one. 

If you have an occupational therapist, talk to them about it. They can tailor your therapy to help prepare you to return to driving. An automatic car can be easier to drive than a manual.

Before you start driving again, you may find it helpful to have a few refresher lessons with a qualified driving instructor. You can find driving instructors in your area by looking in your local phonebook or on the internet. Check that they are registered with the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). Mobility centres can also provide advice about returning to driving.

Insurance
Before you start driving again you must tell your insurance company about your cardiac arrest and any medical conditions you have. If you don’t do this, it might invalidate your insurance. Insurance companies have their own processes, so talk to yours to find out more. Check your policy carefully. They might want confirmation that you are safe to drive.

Having a medical condition can make insurance more expensive. Try shopping around for a competitive quote, or look for a specialist insurance provider when you need to renew.

Category: Driving